Common Dog Bite Injuries in Southern California 

 Posted on December 07, 2023 in Premises Liability

Dog bites can result in severe injuries, both physical and emotional, and Southern California is no exception to this unfortunate reality. With its warm climate and outdoor activities, the region sees its fair share of dog-related incidents. If a dog has bitten you, you may wonder what rights you have and what can be done about your injuries. Consider picking up a phone and calling an attorney in California. You may be eligible for compensation related to your injuries. 

Physical Injuries from Dog Bites

• Deep tissue and nerve damage – Dog bites can cause deep tissue damage, leading to lacerations, puncture wounds, and torn muscles. Additionally, the force exerted during a bite can result in nerve damage, causing numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the affected area. 

• Facial injuries – Southern California sees a significant number of dog bites to the face, which can result in disfiguring scars, fractures, and damage to the eyes, nose, and mouth. These injuries may require extensive medical treatment. In especially severe cases, expensive reconstructive surgery may be necessary. 

• Infections – Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, leading to infections such as sepsis. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent the spread of infection and ensure proper wound healing. 

• Broken bones – The powerful jaws of certain dog breeds can cause fractures and broken bones, especially in vulnerable areas such as the hands, arms, or legs. These injuries may require surgical intervention and lengthy rehabilitation.

Emotional and Psychological Impact 

In addition to physical injuries, dog bite victims often experience varying degrees of emotional and psychological trauma. Common psychological effects include:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Dog bite victims may develop PTSD related to the attack through flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety related to the incident. These symptoms can significantly impact their quality of life and require therapy and counseling. 

• Fears and phobias – After a dog bite, victims may develop a fear of dogs or even a general fear of being in public spaces. This fear can limit their daily activities and social interactions. 

Legal Outlets for Dog Bite Victims

In Southern California, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. This means that those bitten by dogs do not need to prove negligence on the owner's part to seek compensation. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury, it is essential to call a lawyer once you have obtained immediate medical attention. It is also important to gather substantial evidence to support your case, such as the dog owner's name and any witnesses to the attack. Of course, pictures of the scene and your injuries will likely also be important to your case. 

Contact a Los Angeles, CA Dog Bite Injury Attorney

If you have suffered injuries relating to a dog bite, contact the experienced Glendale, CA dog bite injury lawyers with Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C.. Call 818-242-8201 for a free consultation.