Were you bitten by a dog in Irvine, CA? Whether you were bitten while walking through your Irvine neighborhood, visiting a friend, or spending time at a local park, you may have the right to seek compensation. Contact today, Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK at for a free consultation with an Irvine dog bite lawyer.
We understand how overwhelming this experience can be. Our team has 33 years of combined experience and has recovered $98 million. We can provide you with the compassionate legal representation you need to navigate the legal process.
Why Choose Fielding Law After a Dog Bite Incident in Irvine, CA?
Choosing a lawyer after a dog bite is about more than finding someone who understands California law. You want a legal team that listens, communicates openly, and genuinely cares about what you are going through.
At Fielding Law, we believe every client deserves personal attention. We will take the time to understand how the injury has affected your health, your family, and your daily life so we can build a claim that reflects the full impact of what you have experienced.
Our Irvine personal injury lawyers have received the following awards and recognitions:
- The Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Super Lawyers
- Topverdict.com’s Top 50 Jury Verdicts
Our goal is to make the legal process feel less stressful so you can focus on your recovery while we focus on protecting your interests.
Give our Irvine dog bite attorneys a call to arrange a free consultation.
What Are California’s Dog Bite Laws?
California follows a strict liability rule for most dog bite cases. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is generally responsible when their dog bites another person, even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior before.
Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite rule,” California does not require victims to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. In many cases, showing that the bite occurred and that the victim was lawfully on public or private property is enough to establish liability.
This law commonly applies when someone is bitten:
- While walking on a public sidewalk
- While visiting another person’s home
- At a public park
- During a delivery or service call
- At a business that allows dogs
There are situations where strict liability may not apply. For example, different legal standards may apply if the victim was trespassing or if the bite was inflicted by a law enforcement or military dog performing official duties.
Because every case is unique, speaking with an experienced Irvine personal injury attorney can help you understand how California’s dog bite laws apply to your specific circumstances.
What Is My Dog Bite Case Worth?
Factors that may influence the value of your case include:
- The severity of your injuries
- The extent of your required medical treatment
- Whether future medical care will be needed
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
- Permanent scarring or disability
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- The impact the injury has had on your daily life
A bite that heals within a few weeks will generally be valued differently than one that requires multiple surgeries or leaves permanent disfigurement. Likewise, injuries to young children often involve unique considerations because the long-term effects may not be immediately apparent.
Rather than focusing on average settlement amounts found online, it is more helpful to evaluate your individual circumstances. An experienced dog bite attorney in Irvine can review your injuries, losses, and future needs to better understand the value of your claim.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Dog Bite?
If someone else’s dog caused your injuries, you may be able to recover compensation for both the financial and personal losses you have experienced.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Rehabilitation and therapy expenses
If a dog bite results in fatal injuries, certain surviving family members may also be eligible to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Every case is unique, and the damages available depend on the nature of the injuries and how they continue to affect your life. We will work to understand the full impact of an injury so we can pursue compensation that reflects both your current losses and your future needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Irvine Dog Bite Lawyer?
After a dog bite, it is common to worry about medical bills, lost income, and the cost of hiring an attorney. At Fielding Law, we do not want financial concerns to prevent you from getting legal guidance.
We handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay nothing up front.
- There are no hourly attorney’s fees.
- We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Your initial consultation is also free, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, understand your legal rights, and decide how you would like to move forward without any financial obligation.
What Injuries Are Commonly Caused by Dog Bites?
Dog bites can cause injuries ranging from minor wounds to life-changing trauma.
Common injuries include:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Infections
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Broken bones and other trauma
- Emotional trauma
Even if a bite appears minor, seek prompt medical attention to protect your health and document your injuries.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in California?
California law generally gives dog bite victims two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation, even if your claim is otherwise valid.
There are some exceptions that can change this timeframe. Because every situation is different, it is a good idea to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite. Acting early also helps preserve evidence, locate witnesses, and build the strongest claim possible.
What Steps Should I Take After a Dog Bite?
The actions you take after a dog bite can affect both your health and your potential legal claim. Even if the injury does not seem serious at first, it is important to take the situation seriously.
If you have been bitten by a dog, consider taking the following steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment helps reduce the risk of infection and creates medical documentation of your injuries.
- Contact local animal control or the appropriate public health agency so that the incident is properly documented.
- If possible, obtain the owner’s contact information and ask whether the dog is up to date on vaccinations.
- Document your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and any torn or bloodied clothing.
- If anyone saw the attack, ask for their name and contact information.
- Save medical bills, treatment records, prescription receipts, and documentation of any missed time from work.
- Avoid discussing your claim with insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney.
Taking these steps can help protect both your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation.
Contact Fielding Law After for a Free Consultation with an Irvine Dog Bite Attorney
A dog bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars, but you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. Whatever you are dealing with, Fielding Law is here to help.
Our team takes a personalized approach to every case, listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and advocating for the compensation you deserve. We understand that every client is different, and we are committed to providing the guidance and support you need throughout the legal process.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Irvine or the surrounding Orange County communities, contact us today at 833.88.SHARK to schedule your free consultation with an Irvine dog bite attorney. Let us help you take the next step toward your recovery with confidence.