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.
Did you know that there are about 89.7 million dogs as pets in the US? As for California, nearly 40% of households have at least one dog.
Unsurprisingly, your chances of having an interaction with a dog are high, and subsequently, the potential for a negative encounter is even higher. Despite the large amount of love we have for dogs, the truth is that injuries are still likely to occur, especially with dogs you don’t know.
If you’ve been injured following an incident with a dog or dog attack, you may need help to navigate the next steps, not to mention the maze of paperwork required to file a case.
Dog bites fall under the umbrella of personal injury cases. At MKP Law Group, LLP, our attorneys exclusively work with injury victims, helping them to protect their rights, and assisting with navigating the legal maze that stands between the client and fair compensation for damages.
When you need the assistance of our Orange County dog bite attorney, there will be no up-front costs to you. We do not ask our clients to pay out-of-pocket when they are struggling to cope with recent injuries. On the contrary, we work with a team made up of medical experts who ensure that you get the care you need to make a full and speedy recovery.
In the meantime, we work on the legal end to seek compensation for your losses.
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 Orange County Entities to Consult After a Dog Bite
Local Medical Facilities:
- KPC Health Orange County Global Medical Center
- UCI Health
- Orange Coast Medical Center
- West Anaheim Medical Center
Animal Control Services:
- OC Animal Care is an important resource for reporting dog bites and requesting incident reports.
Local Legal Resources:
- Connect with local bar associations like the Orange County Bar Association to contact specialized legal professionals.
Community Resources:
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- Find community support groups to discuss your experience and get additional advice.
MKP Law serves dog bite victims across Orange County. Whether you live in Orange itself, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Anaheim, or Santa Ana, our compassionate team can help you. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you go through the legal process of protecting your rights after a dog bite incident. We understand the unique local laws and can assist you in securing compensation for your injuries while you focus on your recovery.
Why Hire a Orange County Dog Bite Attorney?
What happens after a dog bites you? Did you know that you, as the victim, still have the obligation to report the attack? While it is true that the dog’s owner and any witnesses also have to do so, do not make the mistake of forgetting about reporting your side.
An Orange County dog bite lawyer gives you the space to breathe. They know the ins and outs of Orange County dog laws, so that an insurer cannot hide.
You need this kind of help to sort your damages by medical, financial, and emotional losses.
Orange County dog law requires the animal’s owner to give you their information and the dog’s license number.
- What are you supposed to do with them? An attorney will guide you through the information collection process and handle your end of the legal requirements.
- What should you do if the dog’s owner protests? Would you know how to make a dog bite case for the state’s strict liability standard? When you are hurt, worried, and still trying to get back on your feet, there is a good chance that you are not able to take it all in and do what you need to file a case in a timely manner.
Therefore, hiring an attorney is the best decision you can make in your case. The lawyer evaluates your case. They help you define a strategy that lets you work through the situation at a pace that is comfortable for you. Also, they do the heavy lifting of filing documents, negotiating with insurance companies, and dealing with obstinate dog owners who might try to blame you for the bite attack.
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 compenation.
| 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 Orange County
Orange County dog bite stats:
- 41% of OC dangerous dog owners didn’t complete the “Responsible Pet Ownership Class.” Orange County Animal Services Audit
- OC Animal Care underreported dog bites by 78% in 2022. VoiceofOC.org
- Severe dog bites in Orange County increased in 2022-2023, including a life-threatening incident, despite OCAC claiming improved safety. VoiceofOC.org
Despite our love for dogs, the number of attacks by these beloved animals continues to increase both in Orange County, California, and nationwide.
- 4.7 million dog bite incidents were reported in the United States in 1994. Cdc.gov.
- 885,000 dog bite victims annually need medical attention for related injuries. PubMed.
- 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 rottweilers together account for 76% of the total recorded deaths reported. DogsBite.org.
We’ve rounded up all the most important data in our Important Dog Bite Statistics & Bites by Breed for 2024 page.
Do I Need an Orange County Dog Bite Lawyer to File a Lawsuit?
The good news is that the majority of dog bites are not fatal.
Even still, it’s important to note that according to Orange County Codified Ordinance 4-1-62 it is required to report any dog bites that occur, however minor.
Any person having knowledge of the location of an animal suspected of having rabies, or of any person having been bitten or scratched by any warm-blooded mammal, or of any signs of disease or unusual behavior in any animal under quarantine, shall immediately report such facts to the Director.”
Here’s a direct link to the form to report a dog bite in Orange County: Animal Bite to Human Reporting Form.
Orange County dog attacks are more likely to happen when friends and family members enter the animal’s space. Fortunately, many attacks are so minor that they do not typically call for medical attention. The dog’s teeth may not entirely puncture the skin or do so only slightly.
However, you may benefit from consulting with an Orange County dog bite attorney if:
- The attack was serious. For example, you might not just have puncture wounds but also have lacerations and open wounds. If the dog is bigger, it may cause organ damage, bone fractures, and even nerve damage.
- An infection causes a build-up of scar tissue, which might lead to permanent disfigurement.
- Extreme cases when the injury can be so severe that you lose the full use of a hand or arm.
As you might imagine, the increasing seriousness of the potential injuries leads to the need for extensive medical care. You may undergo surgery to repair torn muscles. After you heal, you might require plastic surgery to repair areas with extreme scarring.
An Orange County dog bite lawyer can file a lawsuit that helps you get fair reimbursement for the financial losses you suffer. Working with a lawyer can ensure that proper steps are taken in order to prove your case. Lawyers often collect surveillance footage that a neighbor’s camera might have recorded. Since motion-activated cameras are now very popular in the area, there is a chance that the attack was caught on video. Lastly, because of Orange County’s rules about vicious dogs, it is critical to also research the animal’s history and see if the owner has added liability for negligence.
Finding the Right Law Firm for Your Orange County Dog Bite Case
For Orange County residents dealing with serious injuries from a dog bite, partnering with experienced personal injury attorneys is crucial to ensuring fair compensation.
Whether the attack occurred in a public place like a park or on private property, a skilled legal team can help you navigate the complexities of California dog bite laws and hold the owner of the dog accountable.
Understanding the statute of limitations is essential. In California, you typically have two years to file a dog bite lawsuit, so acting quickly is critical to preserving your rights. A law firm with years of experience in dog bite and car accident cases can guide you through the process, offering sound legal advice and ensuring every detail is addressed.
A strong attorney-client relationship is the cornerstone of effective representation. The legal team at MKP Law Group takes extra care to prioritize communication, help our clients understand the nuances of local laws, and provide expert legal advice tailored to your situation. From evaluating your case to negotiating with homeowner’s insurance or litigating in court, our law firm is ready to handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on recovery. If your injuries require extensive medical treatment, we will work with you to ensure these costs—along with emotional distress and lost wages—are fully accounted for.
At our firm, we offer a free case evaluation to assess your claim and provide peace of mind. With a proven track record, our attorneys have helped clients in Irvine and across Orange County achieve justice. Whether dealing with attacks involving dangerous dog breeds or incidents on private places, we are here to help. Reach out today for expert guidance and compassionate support.
FAQs
I’ve been attacked by a dog. 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 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.
