Best Animal & Dog Injury Lawyers in Glendale

About Animal & Dog Injury Law in Glendale, United States

Animal and dog injury law in Glendale, United States, focuses on cases where a person is injured by an animal, most commonly a dog. These injuries can include bites, scratches, or other forms of attack. The law is designed to provide remedies for victims, encourage responsible pet ownership, and determine liability when an injury occurs. Both state and local regulations apply, and outcomes often depend on the circumstances of the incident and the history of the animal involved.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance is often crucial after a dog or animal-related injury in Glendale. Here are some common situations where consulting a lawyer can help:

• Your injuries are significant and lead to medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering
• The dog owner denies responsibility or refuses to provide insurance information
• The animal’s owner is uninsured, underinsured, or unknown
• You are facing a claim or lawsuit alleging your dog caused injury to another person
• The dog has a history of aggression or has bitten before
• You encounter issues with local authorities, such as animal control investigations or citations
• The insurance company offers a settlement that seems too low
• The circumstances of the attack are unclear or disputed
• The injury involved a service or working animal, complicating liability

Local Laws Overview

Glendale, located in Los Angeles County, is governed by California state law as well as local ordinances related to animal control and liability.

• California operates under a “strict liability” rule for dog bites. Owners are generally responsible if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place, even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
• Glendale requires dogs to be on a leash in public areas and mandates secure enclosures for dangerous animals.
• Owners must report dog bites to local animal control agencies promptly.
• Certain breeds may be subject to additional restrictions or requirements.
• If a dog is deemed dangerous or vicious by authorities, owners may face special conditions or risk having their animal removed.
• Victims may recover damages for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
• Incidents involving pets other than dogs, like cats or exotic animals, are treated differently and may not be subject to strict liability rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am bitten or injured by a dog in Glendale?

Seek immediate medical attention, gather the dog owner’s contact information, photograph your injuries, and report the incident to local animal control. Retain documentation of medical treatment and consider contacting a lawyer.

Who is liable for dog bite injuries in Glendale?

Generally, the dog’s owner is strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog, provided the victim was lawfully present on private or public property.

Can I file a claim if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

Yes. California’s strict liability law means prior aggression is not necessary for liability to be established.

What types of compensation can I recover after a dog bite or animal injury?

You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical care, and sometimes property damage.

What if the dog owner does not have insurance?

You still have the right to pursue compensation directly from the owner. An attorney can help you explore all available options and resources.

Are there time limits for filing an animal or dog injury claim?

Yes. California law generally provides a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites.

What if the injury occurred on private property?

You can still seek compensation as long as you had a lawful right to be on the property, such as being invited or performing a job duty.

Do I need to prove negligence to win my case?

No. For dog bites in California, strict liability applies, and proving negligence is not required. Other animal-related injuries may depend on negligence laws, however.

What if I was partially at fault for the incident?

If your actions contributed to the incident (such as provoking the animal), your compensation may be reduced accordingly. An attorney can assess the impact on your case.

How can I protect myself from legal claims as a dog owner?

Ensure your dog is always properly contained, leashed, and adequately trained. Obey all local ordinances and report any incidents. Consider liability insurance coverage.

Additional Resources

Here are useful resources and organizations for those seeking information or assistance about animal and dog injury in Glendale:

• Glendale Animal Control - Handles animal complaints and dangerous dog investigations.
• Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control - Offers regional regulations and guidance on licensing and reporting incidents.
• California Department of Public Health - Provides information on animal bite reporting and rabies exposure.
• Local hospitals and urgent care centers - Can provide immediate treatment and documentation for injuries.
• Non-profit organizations, such as The Humane Society - Advocate for victims and animals, and provide educational resources on responsible pet ownership.
• State Bar of California - Refers individuals to personal injury and animal law attorneys in the Glendale area.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one has been injured in an animal or dog-related incident in Glendale:

• Seek medical attention right away and document your injuries
• Report the incident promptly to local animal control authorities
• Gather evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, and medical records
• Contact a lawyer experienced in animal and dog injury law to discuss your rights and options
• Avoid making statements to insurance companies or accepting settlements before consulting with legal counsel