Our attorneys exclusively represent injury victims.
For years we have fought on behalf of clients who were hurt in accidents due to the negligence of another party.
Long Beach’s municipal code §6.16.100 specifies that a dog leash is required on, “any public street, sidewalk, improvement, park or other public places, or private property if the private property is open or accessible to the public.”
Even still, Long Beach dog bite injuries happen.
Have you been injured in a dog bite incident or attack? Are you embarrassed to talk to a lawyer about your dog bite injury? You are not alone. People hesitate to contact dog bite injury attorneys because they feel silly for being bitten, or they are worried about what the dog owner might say.
The dog owner is probably the first one to tell you that it is not a big deal.
However, when the hospital bills come due, it is clear that you need legal assistance to prevent sinking rapidly into debt.
5-Step Quick List When Bitten by a Dog
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If bitten by a dog, promptly visit a local healthcare provider, to treat your injuries and prevent infection. Ensure all treatments are well-documented for your records.
- Report the Incident: Contact animal services or the local police department to file a report on the dog bite. Obtaining a copy of this report is crucial for your legal case.
- Document Everything: Take photographs of your injuries, the location of the incident, and the dog involved if possible. Keep detailed records of your medical visits, expenses, and any interactions with witnesses or the dog owner.
- Avoid Direct Communication with the Dog Owner’s Insurance: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim. Let your attorney handle all communications to protect your interests.
- Consult a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer: Contact an experienced local lawyer who specializes in dog bite cases to explore your legal options and initiate the compensation process.
5 Key Takeaways on Dog Bite Cases
- Dog owners are strictly liable for dog bites. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, California dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their dog regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s knowledge of its tendencies.
- Engaging an experienced attorney enhances your chances of receiving fair compensation. Legal representation will help you navigate the complex legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights.
- Dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation. From medical expenses to lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs, an attorney can help you pursue all possible damages.
- In California, you generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. It is essential to act within this period to preserve your legal rights.
- A successful dog bite claim requires substantial evidence. That includes gathering medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony. An attorney can assist you in collecting these documents and presenting this evidence effectively.
Local Long Beach Entities to Consult After a Dog Bite
Local Medical Facilities:
Animal Control Services:
- Long Beach Animal Care Services is a good initial resource for reporting dog bites and getting copies of your incident reports.
- Los Angeles County Animal Care helps with bite reports if your incident happened in one of the unincorporated areas around Long Beach.
Local Legal Resources:
- Connect with local bar associations like the Long Beach Bar Association and Los Angeles County Bar Association to understand more about your legal rights.
Community Resources:
- Community support groups or neighborhood associations are important venues to share your experience and get peer advice.
MKP Law serves dog bite victims in and around Long Beach. Our team assists residents of Cambodia Town, north Long Beach, Naples, Belmont Shore, and downtown. When you need help protecting your legal rights after suffering a dog bite injury, our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process. Our team understands the local laws and can assist you in securing fair compensation for your injuries while you recover.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation immediately following a dog bite injury to help understand if you have a case.
Other Long Beach Resources
- Long Beach Car Accident Lawyer – Call MKP Law Group, LLC
- Long Beach Lyft and Uber Accident Lawyers – Call MKP Law Group, LLP
- Long Beach Bicycle Accident Lawyer – Call MKP Law Group, LLP
Why Hire a Long Beach Dog Bite Attorney?
The Insurance Information Institute ranks California as the number one state for dog bite incidents. Its 2019 data shows that there were 2,396 claims with an average cost of $51,265 per claim. The value of these claims was $122.83 million.
Since California is the state with the highest risk of sustaining a dog bite, a Long Beach dog bite lawyer can help you effectively navigate the dog bite laws and processes for receiving compensation. If you are unsure how to report the attack to Animal Services or establish a claim with the insurance company, the law office’s staff can assist you.
Even though your immediate concern may be focused on initial medical costs, there are other expenses you might not have thought of including:
- Scar treatment. Children, in particular, benefit from the treatment of scarring to minimize the visible remnants of the attack. Adults, too, may need to undergo this treatment.
- Mental health care. Did you know that dog bite victims can develop PTSD and similar conditions? Feeling suddenly afraid around dogs can be utterly dehabilitating. Treatment is available, however, there is a significant cost.
- Lost wages. You probably took some time off. Maybe you were fearful to leave your home for a few days. It is possible that the dog attack made it difficult or impossible to perform your regular job. In these cases, you may be dealing with a diminished earning capacity in addition to lost wages.
Having a skilled and knowledgeable Long Beach dog bite lawyer will ensure that your claim is handled properly from the outset and the estimated costs of medical expenses is properly accounted for. The attorneys at MKP Law Group, LLP have handled dozens of dog bite cases and are here to help dog bite victims win the maximum compensation they deserve.
Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts
Settlement amounts for dog bite cases can vary widely. Factors like injury severity, medical expenses, and pain and suffering, make each case unique and will determine how much a Los Angeles dog bite injury victim may receive as compensation.
Location/Measure | Settlement Amount |
United States | $58,545 |
California | $68,125 |
Average range | $10,000 – $100,000 |
Median range | $75,000 – $80,000 |
Working with a local dog bite attorney ensures you’re equipped to navigate the complexities of your claim, maximizing your settlement by countering low-ball offers and advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Stats on Dog Bites in the United States, California, and Long Beach County
Long Beach County dog bite stats:
- 76 dogs have been “confiscated” due to bite incidents since 2017. Data.LongBeach.gov
- Long Beach ranks #20 nationwide for mail carriers who suffer the most dog attacks, with 19 incidents reported in 2023. USPS.com
Despite our love for dogs, the number of attacks by these beloved animals continues to increase both in Long Beach County, California, and nationwide.
- 4.7 million incidents were reported in the United States in 1994 and nearly 800,000 people required medical treatment. In addition to that, the report estimates 333,700 patients received emergency care, approximately 6,000 of those were hospitalized. Cdc.gov.
- 70% increase in California dog bite injuries from 2005 to 2022, 125 visits per 100,000 residents. Data.chhs.ca.gov
- California was the top state for dog-related injury claims in 2017. The insurance company paid out $18.7 million for 468 dog-related injury claims for incidents that occurred in California. Overall, including all dog-related injury claims across the country, State Farm paid a total of $132 million for the 3,600 cases. Statefarm.com.
- 66% of reported canine deaths were from pit bulls (311 of 471). Pit bulls and rotweilers together account for 76% of the total recorded deaths reported. DogsBite.org.
Surprisingly, some of the most loveable breeds such as the beloved labrador also made the list of most dangerous breeds despite being commonly designated as a less aggressive breed.
Source: Statista
We’ve rounded up all the most important data in our Important Dog Bite Statistics & Bites by Breed for 2024 page.
Do I Need a Long Beach Dog Bite Lawyer to File a Lawsuit?
After an accident, the dog owner has a vested interest in downplaying the attack. However, if it happened on their property, the homeowner’s insurance coverage will be tapped to pay for your care.
Take advantage of the resources a local attorney can offer to find medical providers who work with you on a no-out-of-pocket lien basis, which prevents the buildup of medical bills. A personal injury lawyer in Long Beach can also direct you to a psychologist who may be able to help you with the stress and emotional consequences.
In California, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing a dog bite personal injury claim from the date of the incident. However, waiting to hire an experienced dog bite attorney is never recommended as there are many factors that can reduce the value of your claim.
Working with local Long Beach dog bite & attack lawyers ensures you get help handling the insurance claims and they will negotiate with the insurance company to get you top dollar. If the insurance company refuses to negotiate fairly and only makes low-ball offers, attorneys are experienced litigators and will file suit in court.
At MKP Law Group, LLP, we have personal injury attorneys that are highly experienced in handling dog bite injury & attack cases and have obtained large settlements on behalf of our clients. Call 323-522-2606 or fill out the contact form below to discuss your case and legal options with our dog bite lawyers.
We proudly service clients in Long Beach and other cities in Los Angeles County including Santa Monica, Westwood, West Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Long Beach, Pasadena, Glendale, and more. We also represent clients in Orange County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County as well.
Choosing the Right Law Firm for Serious Dog Bite and Personal Injury Cases
Selecting the right law firm to handle your case after a serious injury can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. For victims in Long Beach, working with a local Long Beach personal injury lawyer who has years of experience in personal injury cases, including dog bite, rideshare, and car accident claims, ensures that your case is in capable hands.
A strong attorney-client relationship is the cornerstone of effective representation. At MKP we take extra care to prioritize communication, help our clients understand the nuances of local laws, and provide expert legal advice tailored to your situation. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a bite from dangerous dog breeds or navigating the challenges of a car accident, a supportive legal partner is essential.
At MKP Law Group, our attorneys operate on a no fees basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. This accessibility ensures that anyone, regardless of financial situation, can pursue justice. With years of experience handling complex cases, we are dedicated to delivering personalized support and securing the best possible outcome for our clients. Let our team guide you toward the resolution you deserve.
I’ve been attacked by a dog in Long Beach. What should I do?
The immediate priority is your safety and well-being. This is not the time to wrap your arm in a shirt and walk home.
Here are some steps to follow:
- Call an ambulance to take you to the hospital. In the meantime, try to stop the bleeding as well as you can. At the hospital, the attending doctor will evaluate your injury and document it. This documentation will be crucial should you file a dog bite injury case and need to show evidence of the injury.
- While at the hospital, ask the staff to take pictures of the injuries. If you are able, you can do so yourself with a phone.
- Make sure to report the incident to Animal Services and file a police report as well. You may ask a friend to stop by the place where the attack happened and take some pictures. This can help your attorney build a case and spot any situations that may have led to the incident (such as a damaged fence allowing a dog to escape.)
- Talk to an attorney to better understand whether you have a case.
Throughout the process, keep track of your expenses. Similarly, determine how your recovery is going. Are you able to return to work? Can you still do the job that you have? The sorts of effects can determine the value of your case should you have one.
Before you give a statement to the insurance company or sign any paperwork, feel free to call us at MKP Law Group, LLP (323-524-9619) to discuss your legal options. We are experienced in getting dog bite victims the full compensation they deserve, and not only for their physical injuries but their psychological and emotional trauma as well.
Immediately after the attack, our dog bite attorneys know how to make the process as easy as possible for you. Our team also works with a network of medical providers, both doctors, and mental health professionals, that can start treating your injuries immediately after an attack.
Our select network of experts and medical providers often works on a no-out-of-pocket lien basis, so bills and medical expenses do not pile up and overwhelm you as you or a loved one recover.
If a dog bite injury has occurred, don’t hesitate to call the team at MKP Law Group, LLP for your 100% free consultation. We will connect you with the care you need and deserve and actively start working towards recovering your losses.
How can a Long Beach dog bite lawyer help with my case?
A Long Beach dog bite lawyer serves as your dedicated advocate throughout the entire legal process. They handle crucial aspects of your case including:
- Managing Insurance Communications: Your attorney acts as a buffer between you and insurance companies, preventing them from taking advantage of you with lowball settlement offers or using your statements against you.
- Documenting Your Damages: Your lawyer will help collect and organize all evidence of your injuries, including medical records, photographs, incident reports, and witness statements. They’ll also work with medical experts to project future treatment costs, ensuring all potential expenses are accounted for.
- Establishing Liability: California’s strict liability laws make dog owners responsible for bites, but your attorney will gather evidence to prove ownership, document the circumstances of the attack, and identify all potentially liable parties (such as property owners or dog handlers).
- Connecting You with Healthcare: Our network of medical specialists in Long Beach can provide immediate treatment for both physical and psychological injuries, often working on a lien basis so you don’t have to pay upfront.
- Maximizing Your Compensation: Your attorney will calculate the full value of your claim, including non-economic damages like pain and suffering, and fight aggressively through negotiation or litigation to secure the compensation you deserve.
How do I find the best dog bite lawyer in Long Beach?
Finding the right dog bite lawyer in Long Beach requires careful consideration of several key factors:
- Look for Specialized Experience: Choose an attorney who regularly handles dog bite cases in Long Beach and understands California’s specific dog bite laws. Ask about their track record with similar cases and their success rate in securing favorable settlements.
- Check Their Local Presence: A lawyer based in Long Beach will have established relationships with local courts, medical providers, and animal control authorities. They’ll also be familiar with local ordinances and how they affect your case.
- Evaluate Their Resources: The best law firms have access to medical experts, investigators, and other professionals who can strengthen your case. They should also have the financial resources to pursue your case through trial if necessary.
- Consider Communication Style: During your free consultation, assess how well they explain legal concepts and whether they take time to understand your specific situation. Your attorney should be accessible and keep you informed throughout your case.
- Review Payment Structure: Top dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case. Be wary of firms requiring upfront fees or making unrealistic promises about settlement amounts.
At MKP Law Group, LLP, we meet all these criteria and are committed to providing exceptional representation for dog bite victims throughout Long Beach.
How much does a dog bite lawyer cost?
Quick answer: The cost will be a percentage of your final settlement or trial verdicts, but you and your family members do not spend any up-front money when working with our team.
If you are hesitating to hire an attorney because you worry about costs, don’t. Legal representation is your right. We realize that you are dealing with the aftermath of a scary situation. There are lacerations to heal, fears of disfigurement, and the angst and anguish that go with being the victim of an animal attack.
Our dog bite attorneys want to help you and will work on a contingency fee basis. This means that we will not ask you for money up-front. And, if we fail to get you money to help make up for your losses, we will not even charge you after a verdict.
Of course, we intend to win and will work hard to pursue your claim. With this disclaimer in mind, we will agree to base our fees as a percentage of your settlement or trial verdicts. You and your family members do not spend any up-front money when working with our team.
It is difficult to estimate how much money you could walk away with. Fair compensation depends on documented losses and projected expenses you might incur in the future. Examples include the need for reconstructive surgery, treatment for emotional distress, lasting nerve damage, or lacerations requiring several treatments. Moreover, claims for disfigurement are treated differently when the dog attack victim is a minor. The goal of financial compensation is to help you pay for current and future medical bills. Besides that, there are punitive damages that may be more severe when the animal attack that occurred could have been prevented.
What kind of dog bites can earn compensation?
Dog bites can lead to lasting physical and psychological damage for victims of attacks and dog bites. Imagine going about your business, riding your bike, or walking down the street when a dog comes up and attacks you completely by surprise. It can be very traumatic.
MKP Law Group, LLP’s attorneys understand that surviving dog bites and recovering from dog bite attacks are very different things. Many victims of dog bites sustain the following injuries which can result in a pile-up of medical bills and numerous doctor visits:
- Scarring
- Bone Fractures
- Infections
- Puncture Wounds
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Rabies
- Psychological Trauma (PTSD)
- Death
The experienced dog bite attorneys at MKP Law Group, LLP can determine whether you have a legal claim and the amount of damages that you may be entitled to recover. While these damages vary based on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the team at MKP Law Group, LLP will work tirelessly to obtain maximum compensation for you or a loved one.
How do I know if I am eligible for compensation?
Victims of dog bites are entitled to recover damages for both their monetary and non-monetary losses after suffering a dog bite. The experienced dog bite attorneys at MKP Law Group, LLP will fight to get your full compensation for your losses including:
- Medical Bills
- Lost Earnings or Diminished Earning Capacity
- Pain & Suffering
- Scar Revision Treatment
- Mental Trauma (PTSD)
Each dog bite case is different due to several factors including the severity of the attack and the number of medical bills incurred as a result of the attack. The attorneys at MKP Law Group, LLP will build the best case possible to make sure you or a loved one gets the compensation they deserve.
The same goes for a family member who suffered the wrongful death of a loved one because a dog owner failed to protect the public from a dangerous dog, and the owners property caused injuries leading to death. The California Civil Code provides for such a loss. Therefore, our Southern California team can assist you with this type of claim.
How much money can you get for a dog bite?
It is difficult to estimate how much money you could walk away with. Fair compensation depends on documented losses and projected expenses you might incur in the future. Examples include the need for reconstructive surgery, treatment for emotional distress, lasting nerve damage, or lacerations requiring several treatments.
Moreover, claims for disfigurement are treated differently when the dog attack victim is a minor. The goal of financial compensation is to help you pay for current and future medical bills. Besides that, there are punitive damages that may be more severe when the animal attack that occurred could have been prevented.
Because there are so many considerations that go into the verdicts and discussions on dog bites, working with a legal representative makes the most sense.
The actual compensatory dollar amount depends on tangible documents such as medical bills and missed wages—also, factor in property damage that needs to be repaired. However, verdicts also consider the types of damages you cannot necessarily put a finger on. Examples here include suffering, pain, psychological anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. Most importantly, punitive damages are likely, particularly in a situation where a third party knew, or should have known, that they have a dangerous dog.