Newport Beach Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bites happen more often than people think, even in places like Newport Beach. Whether you’re walking near Balboa Pier, spending time at Castaways Park, or visiting a friend in Corona del Mar, a dog bite can change your life in a second.

California follows strict liability laws, which means dog owners are usually held responsible if their dog bites someone, even if the dog never acted aggressively before. Victims have the right to seek payment for medical bills and other losses.

If you or your child suffered a dog bite, you may feel angry, scared, or uncertain about what comes next. These injuries can leave lasting marks, both physically and emotionally. The Newport Beach dog bite lawyers at Bentley & More LLP help people understand their legal rights and take steps to recover. We offer free consultations, so there’s no cost to talk with us about your case.

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California Dog Bite Laws and Liability

Understanding California dog bite laws is essential if you or a loved one has been injured by someone else’s dog. These laws are designed to protect victims, hold dog owners accountable, and provide a clear legal path to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.

Strict Liability Standard in California

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are responsible when their dog bites someone, regardless of prior behavior. The One-Bite law does not apply in California, meaning victims don’t have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had bitten before. As long as the bite occurred in a public space or while the victim was lawfully on private property, strict liability applies.

Owner Responsibility and Exceptions

Even though strict liability applies in most cases, some exceptions exist. For example, if someone was trespassing or provoking the dog when the bite happened, the owner may not be fully responsible. Working dogs, like police K-9s, may also be treated differently under certain situations. However, these exceptions don’t cover every incident, and each case should be reviewed carefully.

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims

In California, you typically have two years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline may mean losing the chance to take legal action. For minors, the clock usually starts on their 18th birthday, giving them more time to file. Still, acting early makes it easier to collect evidence and build a strong case.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?

Taking the right steps after a dog bite can make a big difference. Safety, medical care, and evidence are all key.

Secure the Scene and Seek Safety

The first thing to do is get to a safe place. Move away from the dog and help anyone else who might be in danger. If the dog is still nearby, try to stay calm and avoid sudden movements.

Document the Incident and Gather Evidence

Take photos of the injury, the dog, and the area where the bite happened. Get names and contact details for any witnesses. If the dog owner is present, ask for their contact info and proof of the dog’s vaccination history. These details can support your claim later.

Get Medical Attention Right Away

Even small bites can cause infections or lead to more serious problems. Go to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible. Waiting too long can affect your health and your legal case.

Report the Bite to Authorities

File a report with Newport Beach Animal Control or the Orange County Health Care Agency. Reporting the bite helps track dangerous animals and adds an official record of what happened. Follow any instructions they give, like getting rabies shots or returning for follow-up visits. 

Preserve All Medical Records and Documentation

Keep copies of medical bills, test results, prescriptions, and discharge summaries. These documents show how serious the injury was and what treatment you received.

Document Ongoing Symptoms and Expenses

Write down symptoms that linger or worsen. Keep receipts for transportation, medication, and anything else related to the injury. These records can be used to show how the bite affected your life.

Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies Alone

Dog owners’ insurance companies often try to settle quickly. They may offer money right away, but it might not cover all your expenses. Speaking with a lawyer first helps ensure that you’re not accepting less than what you actually need.

Common Injuries from Dog Attacks

Dog attacks can result in a wide array of physical and psychological injuries. The severity often depends on the breed, size, and behavior of the dog, as well as the victim’s age and health. Some of the most common types of dog bite injuries include:

Puncture Wounds

Puncture wounds occur when a dog’s teeth pierce the skin. These wounds can appear minor on the surface but often run deep, increasing the risk of infection. Due to the presence of bacteria in a dog’s mouth, such as Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga, prompt cleaning and medical evaluation are crucial. Puncture wounds are particularly dangerous when located near joints or tendons.

Lacerations

Lacerations are deep cuts or tears in the skin and underlying tissue caused by a dog’s teeth or claws. These injuries are often more extensive than puncture wounds and may require stitches or reconstructive surgery. Scarring and disfigurement are common long-term effects, especially if the lacerations occur on the face, neck, or limbs.

Infections

Infections are a major complication of dog bites, especially if the wound is not properly cleaned and treated. Common infections include cellulitis, sepsis, tetanus, and, in rare cases, rabies. Symptoms can develop rapidly and may include swelling, redness, pus, fever, and pain. Medical treatment typically includes antibiotics and, in some cases, hospitalization.

Broken Bones

Dog attacks can result in broken bones, especially when the victim is knocked down or bitten with significant force. Common fractures involve the hands, arms, legs, and ribs. Children and elderly individuals are more susceptible due to more fragile bone structure. Fractures often require casting, surgery, or physical therapy to heal.

Nerve Damage

Deep bites can sever or compress nerves, leading to temporary or permanent nerve damage. Victims may experience loss of sensation, tingling, muscle weakness, or paralysis in the affected area. Nerve damage can significantly impair mobility and may require long-term rehabilitation or surgical intervention.

Facial Injuries

Facial injuries are common in children due to their smaller size and proximity to a dog’s mouth. These injuries may include bites to the lips, nose, cheeks, and eyes. In severe cases, reconstructive or cosmetic surgery may be necessary. Scarring and emotional trauma are frequent outcomes of facial attacks.

Psychological Trauma

Beyond physical injuries, dog attacks often cause lasting psychological effects. Many victims, particularly children, develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, nightmares, and a fear of dogs. Therapy and counseling may be necessary to help victims cope with the emotional aftermath.

Fatal Injuries

Although rare, fatal dog attacks do occur, especially in cases involving young children, elderly adults, or aggressive dogs acting in groups. Death can result from blood loss, head trauma, or suffocation due to bites to the throat or face. Fatalities often prompt criminal or civil investigations into the dog’s owner and the circumstances of the attack.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite?

Several people or parties may be responsible for a dog bite, depending on the situation and where the bite happened.

Dog Owner Liability

The owner is usually the main person held responsible. California law holds owners accountable if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property.

Property Owner Responsibility

If the bite happened at a rental property, the landlord or property manager might be partially responsible, especially if they knew the dog was dangerous and didn’t take action.

Third-Party Liability Scenarios

Dog walkers, pet sitters, or others in charge of the dog at the time of the bite might also be held accountable. Each case depends on who had control over the dog and what happened during the incident.

How Our Newport Beach Dog Bite Attorneys Can Help

Greg Bentley &
Keith More, Dog Bite Injury Accident Lawyers

Bentley & More LLP helps clients throughout Newport Beach with legal support after dog bite injuries. From start to finish, our team works hard to build strong cases.

Comprehensive Case Investigation

We gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photos to build a detailed picture of what happened. Each case gets a full review to find key facts and legal options.

Medical Expert Consultations

We work with medical professionals to understand how the injury affects your body and your life. These opinions often help strengthen your claim.

Insurance Negotiation and Settlement

Our personal injury attorneys deal directly with insurance companies. When they try to avoid fair settlements, we push back. We work to secure an agreement that reflects your full set of losses.

Trial Representation When Necessary

If the insurance company refuses to settle on fair terms, our team is ready to take the case to court. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial so that nothing gets missed.

No Fee Unless We Recover a Settlement or Award

We don’t charge any legal fees upfront. You only pay if we recover money for your case through a settlement or trial award.

At Bentley & More LLP, you’re not just another file number. Our team listens, stays in contact, and treats each case with the care it deserves.

We have the tools and experience to handle large and complicated injury cases, including those involving multiple parties, long-term care, or severe injuries.

Let Our Skilled Dog Bite Attorneys in Newport Beach Help

Acting quickly after a dog bite helps protect your legal rights and makes it easier to build a strong case. Bentley & More LLP offers free consultations so you can get answers without any cost or pressure. Call us today at (949) 870-3800 to learn how our attorneys can help you recover payment for your injuries and move forward with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Newport Beach Dog Bites

What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

California’s strict liability law still applies even if it’s the first time. The dog’s past behavior doesn’t matter under this rule.

Can I still recover damages if I was trespassing?

Possibly, but it depends on the situation. Dog bite laws often don’t protect people who were unlawfully on the property. Still, some exceptions might apply.

How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit?

Most people have two years from the date of the bite to file a claim. After that, courts may refuse to hear the case.

What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

You may still have options. Other types of insurance or assets could help cover your losses. A lawyer can explore all potential sources of recovery.

Can children recover damages differently than adults?

Children can file claims through their parents or guardians. Courts may also treat their pain, emotional trauma, and future needs differently when deciding how much money should be awarded.

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