Animal attacks are a critical concern for residents across the state of California. Each year, thousands of people are bitten by animals, leading to a range of injuries from minor scratches to severe wounds requiring extensive medical treatment. Dog bites are the most common type and can result in significant physical and psychological trauma for the victims. These incidents often occur due to negligence on the part of pet owners who fail to properly restrain their animals or follow local leash laws.
The aftermath of an animal attack can be overwhelming, as it usually involves not only physical recovery but also the burden of dealing with the legal hassles of seeking compensation for injuries. Victims may face substantial medical bills, lost wages, and long-term emotional distress. In such situations, having a knowledgeable and dedicated legal team is essential to maximize the odds of getting an appropriate animal attack settlement. You can find qualified animal attack lawyers at Shea & Shea, a San Jose law firm.
Shea & Shea specializes in representing victims of animal bites throughout California, offering experienced legal guidance and support. Our San Jose dog bite lawyers are committed to holding negligent pet owners accountable and helping victims obtain an appropriate animal attack settlement.
The Facts About Animal Attacks
Each year, the State of California records thousands of animal attack incidents, with dog bites constituting the majority. According to recent data, there were 48,596 emergency room visits due to dog bite injuries in California in 2022 alone.1
Most animal attacks occur due to pet owner negligence, such as failure to obey leash laws or properly restrain their animals. These attacks often happen in familiar settings, such as neighborhoods and homes, where pets might feel territorial. Children are especially vulnerable, with the highest rates of dog bites found among those under 10 years old. Furthermore, data indicates that males more frequently suffer dog bite injuries, whereas cat bites are more common among females, particularly those aged 80 and older.2 Cat bites are also much more likely to result in serious skin infections.3
Animal attacks are more likely to occur in rural settings and private residences, particularly during the summer months when outdoor activities increase.
What Injuries Can Animal Attacks Lead To?
Animal attacks can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity depending on the type and size of the animal involved, as well as the circumstances of the attack. Common injuries from these incidents include:
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations
- Infections
- Fractures
- Nerve damage
- Scarring
- Emotional trauma
Steps to Take if You Have Suffered a Dog Bite or Animal Attack
If you have been bitten or attacked by an animal, it is important to take the following steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Clean the wound with soap and water, and seek medical care to assess and treat your animal attack injuries.
- Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or law enforcement to report the attack. This is important for public health and safety.
- Document Everything: Take photographs of your injuries, the scene of the pet attack, and the animal if possible. Keep records of medical treatments and expenses.
- Identify the Animal and Owner: Obtain contact information for the animal’s owner and any witnesses to the attack.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep any clothing or items that were damaged during the attack.
- Follow Medical Advice: Complete all recommended treatments and follow-ups to ensure proper healing and document ongoing health issues.
- Consult a Lawyer: Contact an experienced animal attack lawyer to discuss your case and explore your options for obtaining a fair settlement for your injuries.
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to an animal attack is two years from the date of the incident.
Call Shea & Shea for a Free Animal Attack Consultation
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a pet attack, it is important to contact a personal injury attorney in a timely manner to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Shea & Shea, a San Jose law firm serving the entire state of California, specializes in representing victims of these incidents and obtaining compensation for their suffering. Our dog bite lawyers are well-versed in leash laws in San Jose and other applicable laws relating to liability for animal attack injuries. Contact Shea & Shea today for a free consultation to discuss whether you have a qualifying animal attack case.
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