If a dog has bitten you and the owner does not have insurance, you might feel like you have no recourse. But that is not true. California law provides legal options to recover compensation for injuries, medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and more.
Read on to learn about your legal options for when a dog bite owner has no insurance and how Weinberg Law Offices can help you recover compensation for your injuries.
Can You Sue for Dog Bite Damages?
California law holds dog owners accountable for the harm their animals have caused, regardless of whether they knew the dog might bite. This means you can sue for damages related to the dog bite, including the following:
- Medical costs. This covers all past and future medical expenses related to the dog bite. Compensable medical costs include everything from the initial emergency room visit to ongoing treatments, medications, and any possible future medical needs.
- Lost earnings. If your injuries have kept you from working or lowered your earning capacity, you can recover lost income. Such losses can include the time you have already missed and any future earnings you might lose because of your injuries.
- Pain and suffering. You may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain of the bite, the emotional trauma of the attack, and any psychological effects.
- Property damage. If your belongings were damaged during the incident, you can seek compensation for their repair or replacement.
Whether the injuries are physical, emotional, or financial, California law ensures you have the right to sue for dog bite damages and seek the compensation you need.
Who Pays for Dog Bite Injuries?
California has a strict liability law for dog bites. This means that dog owners are legally responsible for any injuries their dog has caused, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or whether the owner knew the dog might bite. This applies whether the bite happened in a public place or private property where you were lawfully present.
This rule is designed to protect dog bite victims without requiring them to prove that the owner was negligent or knew their dog was dangerous.
But what happens if the dog bite owner has no insurance to cover the damages? Who pays for dog bite injuries, then? This is where your options come into play.
Your Legal Options for Uninsured Dog Bite Claims
Just because a dog bite owner has no insurance does not mean you’re out of luck. Here are some ways you can seek financial recovery after a dog bite.
Homeowners or Renters Insurance
Many homeowners and renters insurance policies include coverage for dog bites. This means that even if the dog owner does not have a separate dog bite policy, their existing insurance might cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. You can request a copy of the dog owner’s policy and review it to see if it includes this coverage.
The Dog Owner’s Personal Assets
In some cases, you can recover compensation directly from the dog owner, even if they do not have insurance. This could involve their savings accounts, investments, or other valuable property. An attorney can investigate the dog owner’s finances to reveal whether this is an option for obtaining compensation.
Other Responsible Parties
Was someone else also at fault? A landlord who knew about a dangerous dog? A negligent dog sitter? If these parties are partially responsible, the law may require them to contribute to your financial recovery, increasing the total amount of compensation you receive.
Your Insurance Policies
Your insurance policies might offer some coverage for your injuries and losses. Your health insurance should cover your medical expenses, and your homeowners or renters insurance might cover certain damages if the bite happened on your property. Carefully review your policies to understand the extent of your coverage and any potential claims you can file.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims
What If I Am Partly to Blame?
Under the comparative negligence rule, California law allows you to recover damages even if you share some responsibility for the dog bite. For example, teasing the dog or trespassing on private property might result in partial fault being assigned to you. In these cases, you could face a reduction in your compensation, but you can still seek damages.
What Counts As a “Bite”?
A dog bite is defined as any contact between a dog’s teeth and a person that results in harm. This means that the owner may still be liable for injuries even if the dog does not break the skin. The law ensures that victims can seek compensation for a wide range of incidents caused by a dog’s behavior.
Is There a Time Limit to File a Claim?
Yes, California’s statute of limitations for dog bite claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. If the victim is a minor, the time frame may be extended until they turn 18. Claims involving government entities may have stricter deadlines, requiring action within six months.
What If the Dog Owner Will Not Cooperate?
If the dog owner refuses to provide information or denies responsibility, there are still ways to move forward with uninsured dog bite claims. Witness statements, medical records, and photographs of your injuries can help build evidence. An attorney can assist in identifying the owner’s assets or other potential sources of compensation.
For a free legal consultation, call (818) 697-1079 or complete the case evaluation form below
Don’t Face This Alone—Let’s Talk
A dog bite can leave you dealing with physical injuries, emotional distress, and unexpected financial concerns. At Weinberg Law Offices, we know how these events can affect every aspect of your life.
Attorney Yoni Weinberg believes that no case is too small to matter. Whether your injuries are minor or severe, every client receives the same level of commitment and care. He is fluent in English, Hebrew, and Spanish and ensures open and comfortable communication.
Contact Weinberg Law Offices today for a free consultation and see how we can work together to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you need.
Disclaimer: This content should not be construed as legal advice.
As a personal injury attorney, my mantra is that there is no such thing as a “small case”. I will give 100% matter how big or small a case may be. I am fluent in English, Hebrew, and Spanish, languages which I use regularly in my practice.
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