Dog/Animal Bite Injuries

Animal attacks in a big city are the inevitable and sometimes devastating result of the coexistence of humans and animal companions such as cats and dogs. Injuries resulting from dog bites often cause lifelong scarring or disfigurement. Children are especially vulnerable since their faces are closer to the level of a dog's teeth than is the case with adults, who are more easily bitten on the leg.

Free Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

If you or your child has been bitten by a dangerous dog in the San Francisco Bay Area, contact Galine, Frye & Fitting to schedule a free initial consultation. We offer case evaluations designed to determine when it is appropriate to file a claim or lawsuit in pursuit of compensation for dog bite injuries.

Plastic Surgery is Costly ◦ Scarring and Disfigurement May be for a Lifetime

Reconstructive surgery is very expensive — and it can only do so much. Some permanent effects, including post traumatic stress syndrome and a damaged appearance, often remain even after all available medical treatment has been completed.

Leash Laws, Fault and Blame are Not the Issue: Your Injuries are the Issue

California is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog's owner is responsible for injuries caused by his or her pet. There is no "free bite" in California. It is true that in many areas, there are leash laws that owners are supposed to abide by. It is also true that aggressive breeds such as Rottweilers and pit bulls are known for their proclivity to harm people.

However, even seemingly harmless dogs such as poodles or cocker spaniels, belonging to responsible, law-abiding dog owners, may bite under the "wrong" circumstances.

Plastic Surgery and Psychological Counseling May be in Store for a Dog Bite Victim

Often, dog bite victims or their parents hesitate to "sue" the owner of the animal that attacked and caused injury. The dog owner may be a friend, neighbor, or family member. Sometimes, dog owners themselves are injured in animal attacks.

Regardless of how or why the dog bite occurred, if a victim has significant expenses, compensation is warranted. Initial medical treatment including prevention and monitoring for infection may be followed by reconstructive surgery and psychological counseling.

We Protect the Rights of the Injured

An effective attorney helps dog bite victims locate any and all sources of liability and responsibility after an animal attack. The owner's or the victim's homeowners insurance are likely sources of compensation.

To schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney regarding the pursuit of compensation after an attack by a wild or domestic animal, contact a California dog bite lawyer at the law offices of Galine, Frye & Fitting.