Dog bites are more common than people realize, and they can result in serious physical and emotional trauma. Despite California’s strict dog bite liability laws, many myths about these incidents create confusion for victims. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, understanding the truth behind these misconceptions is essential to protecting your legal rights.
Myth #1: A Dog Must Have a History of Aggression for the Owner to Be Liable
One of the biggest misconceptions about dog bite cases is that an owner is only responsible if the dog has previously shown aggression or bitten someone before. However, California follows a strict liability law for dog bites. This means that a dog owner is liable for injuries caused by their dog regardless of whether the dog has bitten someone before or shown any signs of aggression. Unlike some other states, California does not follow the "one-bite rule."
Myth #2: If the Dog’s Owner Apologizes or Pays Your Medical Bills, You Don’t Need a Lawyer
Even if a dog owner offers to pay for your initial medical expenses, this does not mean you are fully compensated for your injuries. Dog bite victims often suffer infection, nerve damage, scarring, emotional trauma, and even long-term disability. A personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical treatment. Accepting an informal payment could prevent you from seeking full and fair compensation.
Myth #3: You Can’t Sue If the Dog Bite Happened on the Owner’s Property
Many people believe that if they were bitten while on someone else’s property, they don’t have a case. However, California’s strict liability law applies whether the bite occurred in public or on private property—as long as the victim was legally on the premises. If you were invited onto the property (such as a guest, postal worker, or maintenance worker), the dog owner is still responsible for any injuries their dog causes.
Myth #4: If the Dog Was Provoked, the Owner Is Still Automatically Liable
While California law generally holds dog owners strictly liable, provocation can be a defense. If the dog bite victim intentionally provoked, teased, or harmed the dog before being bitten, the owner may argue that they should not be held responsible. However, proving provocation can be difficult, and each case depends on the specific facts. Children, in particular, are less likely to be considered responsible for provoking a dog.
Myth #5: Dog Bites Are Minor and Don’t Require Legal Action
Dog bites can cause serious injuries, including deep puncture wounds, infections, permanent scarring, and psychological trauma. In severe cases, victims may need reconstructive surgery or long-term therapy to recover. Even if a bite seems minor at first, complications can arise later. Seeking legal advice ensures that you receive the compensation needed for both immediate and long-term damages.
Don’t Let These Myths Stop You from Seeking Justice
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite accident in California, don’t let misinformation prevent you from taking legal action. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and long-term care. The experienced attorneys at Doyle Accident and Personal Injury Attorneys in the San Gabriel Valley are ready to fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal process.
Call (626) 737-0036 today for a free consultation!
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