Modesto Catastrophic Dog Bite Lawyer

Catastrophic dog bite injuries may involve nerve damage, disfigurement, disability, and long-term medical care that can last for years. A Modesto catastrophic dog bite lawyer from Curtis Legal Group could evaluate whether other parties, such as property owners or caretakers, are liable in addition to the dog’s owner, which gives your case a stronger foundation.

Our firm has successfully represented seriously injured clients for over 70 years, including securing a $135,000 settlement for a pit bull attack that caused deep bite wounds and permanent scarring. Call an experienced dog bite attorney from our firm to discuss your possible dog bite injury claim.

State Laws and City Ordinances

California’s strict liability law under California Civil Code § 3342 makes dog owners legally responsible for bites, regardless of whether the dog was trained or untrained and leashed or unleashed, and regardless of breed, size, or previous behavior. Strict liability applies even if the dog was on private property, as long as the injured person was lawfully present there. Modesto Municipal Code § 5-4.203 adds another layer of liability by requiring that dogs be leashed whenever they are in public areas. Our lawyers in Modesto could help you understand all of the liability laws that apply to catastrophic dog bites.

How To Handle Insurance Companies After a Life-Altering Dog Bite

Let our catastrophic dog bite attorneys in Modesto talk to the insurance company. Do not report the bite, give a statement, or sign anything before getting legal advice. In these cases, early mistakes with insurers could significantly reduce the value of your case. Insurance companies often reach out quickly before you have had time to speak with an attorney, offering settlements or asking for recorded statements and access to your medical records. These tactics are designed to protect their bottom line, disorient you, and take advantage of your inexperience with the insurance claim process.

Our experienced lawyers could handle all insurance communication, secure the policy details, and protect your legal position. Letting an attorney manage the entire process could prevent a lot of problems and delays.

What Is the Legal Process After a Serious Dog Bite?

After initial emergency care, the legal process begins with an investigation into liability. This includes obtaining animal control reports, medical records, photographs, and witness statements. Once evidence has been gathered, attorneys may submit a claim to the dog owner’s insurance provider. If no settlement is reached, a lawsuit would be filed in Stanislaus County Superior Court.

Medical experts are often needed to project future treatment needs after a dog bite. Plastic surgeons, for example, may assess the cost of revision surgery, and other expert witnesses might calculate the victim’s lost earning capacity. A lawyer in Modesto could help you navigate this process after a life-changing dog bite injury.

Understanding the Full Value of Your Injuries

Serious dog bites often involve facial trauma, tendon and nerve damage, disfigurement, psychological injuries, and the need for future surgeries. Victims should never rush to settle before understanding the total financial and medical impact of the injury. Compensation could include past and future medical costs, lost income, diminished earning potential, and damages for pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. While an average dog bite settlement is in the tens of thousands of dollars range, the cost of a serious dog attack may far exceed that.

Our catastrophic dog bite attorneys could consult with physicians and life care planners in Modesto to carefully evaluate the full impact of the injury. We are extremely thorough when calculating the potential losses from dog bites.

Speak With a Modesto Attorney About a Catastrophic Dog Bite Case

Curtis Legal Group has earned recognition for our results in personal injury litigation and our service to local communities. Our firm has served the Central Valley for over 70 years, winning cases and securing justice for countless injured clients.

Do not try to navigate a dog bite injury claim on your own. Contact us to speak to a reputable Modesto catastrophic dog bite lawyer today.