Dog Bites Lawyer

Dogs have earned the nickname “man’s best friend,” but not every interaction with them is positive. Even domesticated animals can attack seemingly without warning, and the injuries that occur as a result can be severe. If you have been bitten by a dog, you might have a viable claim for damages against the owner of the animal.

A dog bite lawyer can answer your legal questions and help you explore your options. The process of pursuing a lawsuit against the dog owner can be complicated without help, but the team at Axion Law Group is ready to advocate on your behalf.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause more than surface wounds. The damage often requires immediate medical treatment and, in some cases, long-term care. While some wounds will fully heal over time, others will result in permanent disabilities. Our attorneys can help you pursue justice for the following injuries.

Puncture Wounds

Bites frequently result in deep punctures and torn skin. These wounds may require surgery and/or stitches. Because dog bites can introduce bacteria, they also carry a high risk of infection. One of the greatest risks of a dog bite is the ongoing health risks.

Scarring

Dog bites causing puncture wounds can leave scars that last for years or even permanently. This can be problematic and difficult to correct for children and adults, especially if the bite occurs on exposed parts of the body, such as the face. Plastic surgery may be available to correct bite scarring, butit is not always 100% effective in removing scarring. 

Nerve Damage

If a dog bite penetrates deeply enough, it can damage nerves. Victims may suffer from pain, numbness, or loss of function in the affected area, which sometimes requires surgery to repair. Nerve damage is especially common following bites to the hands or face. They also have the potential to cause chronic, long-lasting nerve pain.

Broken Bones

Strong bites can lead to bone fractures. While these injuries can happen to anyone, children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to broken bones following a dog bite.

Emotional Trauma

The impact of a dog bite is not only physical. You could also experience anxiety, nightmares, or a lasting fear of dogs. These psychological effects can be just as damaging as physical injuries.

Owner Liability: Is there a One-Bite Rule?

Neither California nor Washington has a “one-bite” rule. California and Washington apply strict liability in dog bite cases. This means that dog owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression before. The law holds owners accountable as long as the victim was legally present on public or private property at the time of the attack.

Exceptions may apply if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog, but in most cases, the owner cannot avoid responsibility. Proving liability involves showing that the attack occurred and resulted in measurable damages such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. A dog bite lawyer can help you build the strongest case for compensation after an attack.

Reach Out to Axion Law Group To Discuss Your Case

If a dog has bitten you, now is the right time to explore your legal options. Our team of attorneys is here to help you get the outcome you deserve. Reach out to Axion Law Group as soon as possible to schedule a private consultation with a dog bite lawyer.