Dog Bite Liability in Modesto

You can typically recover damages after a dog bite without having to prove the dog has a history of aggression or that the owner was negligent. This matters if the dog bit you in a public place. Here at Curtis Legal Group, our experienced animal attack attorneys understand dog bite liability in Modesto, and we have recovered substantial compensation for injury victims, including those harmed in dog attacks.

Who Can You Sue After a Dog Bite?

Dog owners are the most common defendants in dog bite cases. However, if a dog bites you on a rental property, the property owner can be legally responsible under certain conditions. Similarly, employers can be liable if the dog that bit you was part of a work environment or business, such as a security dog at a warehouse.

In some situations, a pet sitter or dogwalker can bear responsibility under local ordinances. This applies in cases where a person is regularly caring for or housing the dog, such as in shared living arrangements. The Stanislaus Animal Services Agency maintains records that could show whether the dog was under someone’s control or care at the time it bit you. A Modesto lawyer could evaluate each case individually to determine all potentially accountable parties in your dog attack claim.

If It Is the Dog’s First Attack

Some states have a one-bite rule whereby prior knowledge of dangerous behavior is required to file a claim. In Modesto, no such rule applies when holding an owner accountable for their dog’s vicious behavior.

The state liability statute does not require a prior history of aggression. Civil Code § 3342(a) states that the owner is liable whether the bite occurred in a public place or on private property, excluding trespassing and provocation. The statute applies even if this was the first time the dog showed signs of aggression.

When Is a Landlord or Property Owner Responsible?

Modesto property owners have a legal duty for the violent behavior of a tenant’s dog in limited circumstances. According to state case law, particularly Uccello v. Laudenslayer (44 Cal. App. 3d 504), liability applies when the property owner knew the dog was dangerous and could have removed it or prevented access. This often arises in multi-unit dwellings or rental homes.

Property owner liability depends on knowledge and control. If there were prior complaints or documented attacks and the owner or manager failed to act, a lawsuit may be possible.

When Home or Rental Insurance Covers Dog Bites

Rather than paying you directly, dog bite compensation generally comes from the dog owner’s rental or homeowners’ insurance. However, policies often exclude dangerous breeds, and some policies deny coverage if the dog has a history of attacks. Some owners are uninsured, which can make compensation recovery difficult.

Filing a timely insurance claim supported by medical records, witness statements, and the Stanislaus Animal Services Agency report helps preserve your case. Curtis Legal Group’s Modesto team of lawyers could guide you through the compensation claims process to establish liability and maximize recoverable damages after a dog bite attack.

Call Us for Help Establishing Liability in Your Modesto Dog Bite Claim

Here at Curtis Legal Group, we are Heavy Hitters™ and have earned a state-wide reputation for helping injury victims recover the compensation they deserve. Firm founder Ralph S. Curtis is a respected member of the Stanislaus County Bar Association, and the firm maintains strong community ties through local sponsorships and scholarships.

With proven results that include a $135,000 dog bite settlement and other six-figure recoveries for injured victims, we have a deep understanding of dog bite liability in Modesto and how to handle injury lawsuits with precision. Contact us today to schedule a free case review with one of our experienced attorneys.