Contra Costa County Dog Bite Lawyer

Dogs are “man’s best friend” for a reason. They’re smart, loyal, and, above all, loving and friendly. Unfortunately, not all dogs are “good dogs.” Some are violent, whether due to being poorly trained or even just having a bad temperament. That said, dog attacks can have significant and lasting damages, and if you were injured by a dog, our firm is here to help. Contact a knowledgeable Contra Costa County dog bite lawyer from O’Connor Law APC for a free initial consultation today.

California’s Dog Bite Laws

California has some of the most victim-friendly dog bite laws in the country. Under California Civil Code § 3342, the state follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is typically liable for damages, regardless of whether the dog has shown prior signs of aggression or whether the owner had any reason to believe the dog might bite. In other words, the “one free bite” rule does not apply in California.

However, there are some important exceptions to keep in mind. For example, if the injured person was trespassing on private property, provoking the dog, or committing a crime at the time of the attack, they may be barred from recovering damages. Additionally, certain professions, such as veterinarians or dog groomers, who accept the risk of handling animals in the course of their work, may face limitations in pursuing a claim.

It’s also important to note that the strict liability rule only applies to dog bites, not to other types of injuries caused by a dog, such as being knocked over. Those types of cases may still be pursued, but they often require showing negligence on the part of the dog owner.

What to Do After a Dog Attack

If you’ve been attacked by a dog, your health and legal rights need to be protected. Taking the following steps can help ensure your safety and strengthen your claim:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Dog bites can lead to serious infections, scarring, or even rabies. Don’t delay—see a doctor as soon as possible, even if the wound seems minor.
2. Identify the Dog and Its Owner: If possible, get the name, address, and contact information of the dog’s owner. Also try to confirm whether the dog has been vaccinated, especially against rabies.
3. Report the Incident: File a report with Contra Costa County Animal Services or your local animal control office. This creates a formal record of the attack and may help prevent future incidents.
4. Document Everything: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog (if safe to do so). Keep medical records, witness statements, and any correspondence with the dog’s owner.
5. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies Alone: The dog owner’s insurance company may try to contact you quickly. It’s best not to give any statements or accept a settlement without speaking to an attorney.
6. Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer: An experienced Contra Costa County personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Recoverable Compensation

A dog bite can leave more than just physical scars—it can disrupt your life in countless ways. At O’Connor Law APC, we work to secure compensation that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses, including both economic and non-economic damages.

• Economic damages may include:
• Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, physical therapy)
• Future medical treatment
• Lost wages due to time away from work
• Reduced earning capacity if the injury affects your ability to work

Non-economic damages cover the personal toll of the attack, such as:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma or PTSD
• Disfigurement or permanent scarring
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Anxiety around dogs or social situations

Every case is unique, and the impact of a dog bite can be profound. We’re here to help you pursue the full and fair compensation you need to heal and move forward with confidence.

Contact a Pleasant Hill, California Dog Bite Lawyer

Here at O’Connor Law APC, we believe in fighting for our clients and the compensation they need to move on with their lives. If you were attacked by a dog in any capacity, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled Contra Costa County dog bite lawyer from our firm today. We are here to effectively represent your rights and interests, every step of the way.