Dog Attack Lawsuit Filed by Fresno Family
As reported by Philip Gonzales in the Northern California Record, the family of a Fresno man has filed a lawsuit in the Fresno County Superior Court against several defendants alleging negligence and wrongful death in the death of their family member.
According to the complaint, the man’s body was found in a canal on July 5, 2016. The cause of death was drowning; however, there were wounds that on his body that appear to be bite marks. The family members allege the attack contributed to his death. The suit is alleging that the defendants are responsible for damages for failing to restrain their dogs and secure their premises. The suit is seeking a variety of financial and non-economic damages.
Dog Bites Cause Serious Injuries
The Centers for Disease Control report that there are approximately 4.5 million dog bites each year in the United States with about 20 percent of the injuries becoming infected. Depending on the attack, a dog bite can result in permanent injury. Common injuries from dog bites include:
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations and cuts
- Infections and other complications
- Loss of limbs or other body parts
- Fractures and broken bones
- Death
Children are particularly at risk for dog bites, but a dog can attack any person at any time. Even a dog that has been friendly on prior occasions can suddenly turn and attack.
For information on how to tell when a dog may be ready to attack and how to care for a dog bite, visit the CDC’s website for dog attacks.
Dog Attack Laws in California
California law holds a dog owner strictly liable for any and all damages caused by a dog bite or dog attack. If your dog bites another person who is legally on your property or another person’s property, you can be held liable for all damages arising from the incident. Your dog may never have attacked another person before this incident and never shown any signs of being dangerous or violent — you can still be held liable. In California, there is not a “first bite” forgiveness law. The first time our dog bites another person, you are responsible.
Damages in a Dog Bite Lawsuit
The damages in a dog attack claim depend on the severity of the injuries. Most claims including compensation for:
- Medical bills, including surgeries, reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitative therapy
- Lost wages, including future loss of income for permanent disability
- Physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Psychiatric or mental health care (i.e. PTSD, anxiety, etc.)
If a dog bites you, contact the police and report it to the owner, if you know who owns the dog. Seek medical attention immediately — you may need to be treated for rabies, MRSA, or tetanus. After you receive medical treatment, contact an experienced Fresno dog bite attorney to discuss your legal options for recovering money for your damages from the dog’s owner.
Fresno And Central California Valley Dog Attack Attorneys
Contact Torem & Associates by telephone at (888) 500-5000 or online by using the contact form on our website to request your free legal consultation and no-obligation case evaluation. We are here to help you when you need an attorney to fight for your rights.
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