Woodland Hills is a quaint and beautiful neighborhood bordering the Santa Monica Mountains. Because it is so close to the mountains, there are many outdoor activities for residents and visitors to participate in, and many people bring their dogs along with them while exploring this rich city. Although many dog owners keep a close eye on their pet, some dogs can become dangerous and hostile when exploring new surroundings and passing by unfamiliar people. It is in these times when many dogs attack.

1. How Often to Dog Bites Occur?

The Center for Diseases Control and Prevention says that almost 4.5 million dog bite injuries are reported every year in the United States. One out of five dog bites require medical attention to prevent a serious infection from spreading. Elderly citizens and young children are the most at risk when dealing with dog bites. Each attack can vary in severity from a small scrape to extreme injuries and impairment. It is important to seek immediate medical attention when necessary. Seeking medical care and trying to recover from an animal attack can create stress and a financial burden that no one should have to face alone. If you or someone you love has been injured by a dog bite, you might be eligible for compensation. You could potentially receive compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of wages
• Psychological therapy or counseling
• Lost earning capacity
• And much more!

Call Walch Law Law to talk with one of our experienced attorneys. We will listen to your story and help you determine if you are eligible for compensation. We want to help lift some of the financial burden for you.

2. California Laws on Dog Bites: Know Your Rights

The state of California imposes a “strict liability” on all dog owners. This means that any dog owner is liable for all damages of the victim who was bitten, even if it is the animals first assault. In some other states, dogs are given a “one-bite” pass, meaning if it is their dogs first attack, the owners are not always held liable. However, this is NOT California law. Even if the owner had no reason to be worried about their dog being dangerous—if the dog bites someone—they owner is likely to be found 100% liable. You have the right, if bitten, to contact a one of our winning dog bite personal injury attorneys in Woodland Hills to seek damages.

3. Can someone be ineligible to file a suit in California?

The short answer is YES. People who are victims of a dog attack are usually not able to recover damages if:

• The victim provoked the animal
• The animal was protecting its owner from another person
• The animal was a police or military dog in appropriate accordance with the agency, or
• The victim was trespassing on private property.

4. Contact a Winning Woodland Hills Dog Bite Attorney

Take legal action today by calling a winning Woodland Hills dog bite Attorney at Walch Law to help you recover the compensation you deserve. We are passionate about helping our clients and will do whatever we can to help you win. Don’t wait, call today!