Dog Bite Attack: What Evidence You Need to Document
A dog bite can cause serious physical and emotional trauma that requires proper documentation for any legal claim. Raffi Naljian helps dog bite victims understand California's strict liability laws and what evidence strengthens your case. Unlike many injury claims, California dog owners are liable for bites regardless of the dog's history—but you still need proper documentation. This checklist ensures you preserve critical evidence.
Attacked by a dog?
Raffi Naljian
Lead Personal Injury Attorney
With 15+ years of experience, Raffi Naljian has recovered millions for accident victims across California. Known for aggressive negotiation and compassionate client care.
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Dog bite cases in California benefit from strict liability laws, but that doesn't mean they're automatic wins. Insurance companies still fight to minimize payouts, and documenting the attack properly matters. Raffi Naljian handles personal injury cases including dog attacks and can guide you through the claims process. When looking for the "best dog bite lawyer," consider someone familiar with homeowner's insurance policies and California's animal owner liability statutes. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
What to Do Next
- 1Seek immediate medical attention for bite wounds
- 2Report the bite to local animal control
- 3Identify the dog and its owner
- 4Get the owner's contact and homeowner's insurance information
- 5Photograph your injuries before and after treatment
- 6Document the location where the attack occurred
- 7Get witness contact information
- 8Keep records of all medical treatment
- 9Photograph injuries as they heal to document scarring
📋Evidence Checklist
- Photos of wounds immediately after the attack
- Photos of injuries during the healing process
- Animal control report with case number
- Medical records including wound care and treatment
- Rabies vaccination status of the dog (if available)
- Owner identification and homeowner's insurance info
- Witness statements about the attack
- Photos of the location where the attack occurred
- Documentation of any previous incidents with this dog
- Records of psychological treatment if needed
- Photos showing scarring at various stages
Dealing with scarring from a bite?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not seeking medical attention for "minor" bites (infection risk)
- Failing to report to animal control
- Not identifying the dog and owner before leaving
- Accepting verbal promises to "pay for everything"
- Not documenting the healing process over time
- Underestimating emotional trauma from the attack
- Waiting too long to pursue the claim
How the Process Typically Works
Immediate Care
Wound treatment, rabies assessment, and initial documentation
Official Report
Animal control report and owner identification
Investigation
Determining insurance coverage and any prior incidents
Treatment Completion
Following medical care including any needed procedures
Demand Presentation
Claim to homeowner's insurance with full documentation
Resolution
Settlement negotiation or litigation as needed
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Emergency room and medical treatment
- •Plastic surgery and scar revision
- •Rabies shots and preventive treatment
- •Physical therapy if needed
- •Psychological counseling for trauma
- •Lost wages during recovery
- •Pain and suffering
- •Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- •Future medical procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is California's dog bite law?
California Civil Code 3342 imposes strict liability on dog owners. This means the owner is responsible for bite injuries regardless of whether the dog had bitten before or shown aggressive tendencies.
Does the "one free bite" rule apply in California?
No. California does not follow the "one free bite" rule. Dog owners are liable for the first bite, not just subsequent ones. However, the strict liability applies specifically to bites, not other injuries.
What if the dog owner has no homeowner's insurance?
You can still pursue a claim directly against the owner. However, collecting on a judgment against an uninsured individual can be difficult. An attorney can help evaluate the realistic recovery options.
Can I sue if I was bitten while on the owner's property?
California's strict liability applies if you were lawfully on the property (invited guest, mail carrier, etc.). If you were trespassing, different rules may apply.
What if a dog knocked me down but didn't bite?
California's strict liability statute specifically covers bites. Other dog-related injuries may require proving negligence—that the owner failed to control a dog they knew or should have known was dangerous.
How much is a dog bite case worth?
Value depends on factors like injury severity, scarring location (face vs. leg), need for surgery, psychological impact, and more. An attorney can provide a better estimate after reviewing your specific case.
California law protects dog bite victims.
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Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.