Dog bites/Attacks
According to a recent survey by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention there are more than 74.8 million dogs in the United States. This survey also shows that dogs bite more than 4.7 million people every year - nearly 2% of the population. Children are particularly vulnerable. They comprise more that 70% of dog bite victims, and often are the victims of the more serious injuries from dog bite attacks.
Most American states make dog owners liable for all dog bites when a person is bitten, based simply on owning the dog that did the biting. A minority requires the victim to prove that the dog was vicious or that the dog owner or another party caused the incident through negligence or by violating an animal control law (like a leash law). Fortunately the victim's legal damages are covered by most homeowners and renters insurance policies purchased by dog owners, and by general liability policies that insure businesses and public entities.
Although a dog owner in California is strictly liable for the injuries caused in a dog bite attack, the owner, the landlord and others can defend themselves and avoid liability under certain circumstances. When these circumstances arise it is essential to be represented by a competent dog bite attorney to ensure that the defenses raised do not derail your case.