Animal Attacks

in California

According to KRON4, California ranks second in the nation for the highest annual number of deaths caused by animal attacks.

Statewide, a total of 299 individuals were killed by animals between 1999 and 2019.

In the U.S., although individuals have sustained fatal injuries from various wild animals, aggressive domestic dogs present the highest risk in urban settings. Alarmingly, 46 people were killed by dogs in 2020, according to AP News.

What steps can you take to secure a fair settlement after an animal attack in Southern California?

If you or your child has experienced significant injuries from a dog attack, securing the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer in Southern California is vital for maximizing your chances of obtaining full compensation. At Wiseman-Hoffs Attorneys, we bring the expertise, skills, and resources necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve for serious dog bite injuries. Our dedicated legal team is focused on supporting victims and advocating against insurance companies. We prioritize our clients, taking a steadfast approach that blends compassion with determination in every case we manage.

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Are there laws regarding leashing pets?

in Southern-california

In 2011, the Southern California Council introduced new leash regulations for dogs on city trails, according to The Mercury News. These rules stipulate that dogs must be on leashes no longer than six feet while on city trails, and dog owners must walk on the right side of the trail with their pets. In open grassy parks, dog owners are permitted to use leashes up to 20 feet long, provided their pets do not cause disturbances or pose a threat to others.

How prevalent are dog bite injuries in California?

In 2021, California reported the highest number of dog bite injury claims in the country, according to State Farm. The insurer recorded 388 claims, leading to $23 million in payouts. Across the U.S., State Farm disbursed nearly $162 million for 3,260 dog bite claims, averaging $49,612 per claim. This amount reflects a 2.3% rise from the prior year, which State Farm links to stress, anxiety, and shifts in dogs' routines due to the pandemic.

What is the California
Law on Animal Attacks?

State law concerning dog bites is detailed in the California Civil Code, particularly Section 3342. California enforces strict liability dog bite laws, which means pet owners are liable for damages caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the dog has a history of biting or if the owner was aware—or should have been aware—of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. This law is applicable in the following situations when a person is bitten:

  • in a public setting, such as a park, city trail, or on the street or sidewalk.
  • lawfully in a private location, including the dog owner's property. For instance, someone invited into the dog owner’s home or a mail carrier delivering mail would be deemed lawfully present.
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Wiseman Hoffs can get you the compensation you deserve.
CALL Now We will make them Pay.

We possess extensive knowledge of the law and know how to effectively counter the defenses that attorneys might employ to deny liability. Our aim is to restore our clients to their pre-incident state through maximum financial compensation and to assist them in resuming their normal routines as swiftly and efficiently as possible. Don’t join the ranks of those who fail to report these incidents and pursue compensation. If you are a dog bite victim, there’s a good chance that someone is liable.

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