Dog Bite Lawyer in Riverside Image

Dog bites happen fast but can leave deep wounds that last a lifetime. These injuries bring pain, hospital visits, and fear that doesn’t go away overnight. If a dog attacked you or your child, you don’t have to handle this alone. A Riverside dog bite lawyer at Dordick Law Corporation can help you hold the dog’s owner accountable. As a leading Riverside dog bite attorney with a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients, Dordick Law Corporation understands the complexities of these cases.

Under California law, the dog’s owner can be held liable for your injuries, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. We’ll stand by your side while you focus on recovering. Call (310) 341-7176 to talk with us today and learn how we can help you move forward.

Riverside Office 3891 11th Street, Riverside, CA 92501 (310) 341-7176
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    How Common Are Dog Bites in Riverside?

    Dog bites can happen in quiet neighborhoods or busy parks. California reports thousands of dog bites every year. Most dog bites in Riverside County are reported in both residential and public areas, highlighting the need for community awareness. Riverside has its share of these scary attacks, too. Even dogs that seem friendly can bite if scared, sick, provoked, or untrained.

    Children face the highest risk because they’re small and might not know how to act around dogs. Some dog attacks leave victims with torn skin, broken bones, or even nerve damage. Common injuries from dog bites include puncture wounds, lacerations, and emotional trauma, which can have lasting effects. These wounds can lead to infections like rabies. You must treat dog bite injuries right away. Always wash the wound, see a doctor, and report a dog bite in Riverside to animal control.

    Understanding California Dog Bite Law

    California has strict liability dog bite laws. California’s strict liability statute, specifically California Civil Code Section 3342, makes dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their pets regardless of prior behavior. Under California law, victims of dog bite cases do not need to prove negligence, but there are legal complexities that may affect your claim, such as exceptions and nuances in the statute. This means you don’t have to prove that the dog’s owner knew their dog was dangerous. If a dog bites you in a public place or when you are lawfully on private property, the owner is usually responsible. This California dog bite law protects victims.

    Some states give dogs “one free bite,” but not California. Here, owners must pay for the damage their dogs cause. An animal attack attorney can explain your rights. You have two years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit against the dog’s owner. Waiting too long can cost you your chance to obtain fair payment.

    Who Pays for Dog Bite Injuries?

    After a bite, it is common to face significant medical costs associated with treating the injury. You may need stitches, surgery, or plastic surgery for permanent scarring from dog attack wounds. Victims can seek compensation through a dog bite claim to recover financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. You might also face lost wages, pain, and emotional trauma. Many people struggle with emotional distress from dog bite attacks, especially kids.

    Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowners or renters insurance. It’s common to see insurance companies try to pay less than you deserve. That’s why you need a dog bite attorney in Riverside working for you. Dordick Law Corporation can deal with the insurance company while you focus on healing.

    What Kinds of Dog Attack Injuries Can You Claim?

    A dog bite can lead to many health problems. Dog attacks often result in serious injuries and physical injuries, including deep wounds and nerve damage. Some injuries heal in weeks. Others may cause lasting pain. Common dog attack injuries include:

    • Deep cuts or torn skin
    • Broken bones
    • Amputations
    • Nerve damage
    • Rabies or infection risk
    • Disfigurement or scars
    • PTSD or anxiety after the attack

    Injuries caused by dog bites can also lead to medical complications, such as infections or the need for long-term care.

    Kids who get bitten often feel scared of dogs for years. A good personal injury lawyer in Riverside can help families get treatment for physical and emotional wounds.

    Proving Dog Owner Negligence

    In California, you usually don’t have to prove the owner was careless to secure compensation for your injuries and other losses. But if they knew the dog was aggressive and didn’t control it, that adds to your case. Evidence of a dog’s aggressive behavior or a history of attacks can strengthen your claim. This is called dog owner negligence. Sometimes owners ignore leash laws or let their dogs run free. If a dog bite occurs on someone else’s property, the dog owner’s responsibility may still apply under California law. Some don’t warn visitors their dog might bite or fail to manage aggressive behavior.

    Proving these facts can help you win more in a dog bite lawsuit. An experienced Riverside dog bite lawyer knows how to gather vet records, witness statements, and medical reports that can support your case.

    Children Bitten by Dogs

    Children bitten by dogs often suffer the worst injuries. Their smaller size makes them easier targets. Bites to the face or neck can leave visible scars forever. Kids also struggle with nightmares or fear of animals after an attack.

    Our Riverside dog bite team takes these cases seriously. We’ll push for money to cover therapy, surgery, and any future medical care. We understand how important it is for your child to feel safe again.

    What Damages Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?

    Victims can claim money for the losses and expenses they face after a dog bite or attack. Our goal is to ensure you receive fair compensation for all damages, and we assist clients in seeking compensation through personal injury claims. This may include recovering money for:

    • Medical expenses from dog bites
    • Ongoing treatment
    • Cosmetic surgery for scars
    • Emotional distress from a dog bite
    • Lost future earnings if you can’t work
    • Permanent scarring
    • Pain and suffering

    Every case is different. Dog bite settlement amounts vary based on injury severity, medical needs, and insurance policy limits. We’ll fight for every dollar you’re owed.

    What If the Dog Was Aggressive Before?

    Some dogs have a bite history. When an owner knows a dog has attacked before and doesn’t control it, that can lead to an aggressive dog lawsuit. California has laws that are meant to handle repeat offenders. California dog owners can be held strictly liable for attacks, and victims should understand their legal options for pursuing a claim.

    If a dog is labeled dangerous, owners must take steps like stronger fencing or muzzles. Ignoring these rules can put everyone at risk. A dog bite attorney in Riverside can show how the owner failed to follow these laws, and that failure caused your injuries.

    What Happens in a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

    Not every case goes to court. Many settle through an insurance claim. But sometimes insurance companies won’t pay fair money. That’s when your lawyer may file a lawsuit. Navigating the legal process for a dog bite case can be complex, and filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to secure full compensation. Here’s what the dog bite lawsuit process looks like:

    • Investigate the bite and gather evidence.
    • Send the owner’s insurance a demand letter.
    • Negotiate a fair settlement.
    • File a lawsuit if needed.
    • Prepare for trial and fight in court.

    Our team has extensive experience handling these cases, and we know what it takes to win.

    What to Do Right After a Dog BiteBlack dog growling with bared teeth.

    If you or your child gets bitten:

    • Get to safety.
    • Get medical help fast. (Seek immediate medical treatment and medical attention from qualified medical professionals to prevent infection and document your injuries.)
    • Report a dog bite in Riverside to local animal control.
    • Take photos of wounds and where the bite happened.
    • Gather names of witnesses.
    • Call our law firm to speak with a dog bite injury lawyer in Riverside.

    It is important to seek medical attention right away after a dog bite to ensure proper care and support your legal claim. Act quickly. Evidence can fade, and the sooner you call, the stronger your case can be.

    Questions and Answers

    After an attack, it is natural to have questions regarding your rights and what to do. Here are answers to some of the common questions we are asked.

    Do You Have to Pay Taxes on a Dog Bite Settlement? 

    Many people wonder about taxes. In most cases, money for personal injury from dog bite injuries isn’t taxable. Payments for medical bills or lost wages usually aren’t taxed either. But you should check with your lawyer or tax advisor about your particular situation.

    Can You Sue for Emotional Distress After a Dog Bite? 

    Yes, you can. Trauma from a dog attack is real. Many victims struggle with anxiety, fear, or depression after a bite. Some kids need therapy for years. California allows victims to claim money for emotional distress from dog bite incidents. Your dog bite attorney in Riverside will work with doctors and mental health experts to obtain proof that your emotional pain deserves fair payment.

    What Makes Dordick Law Corporation Different?

    You don’t want just any lawyer. You want someone who understands California dog bite law inside and out. Dordick Law Corporation is a law group with a deep understanding of the challenges dog bite victims face, and our dedicated legal team provides compassionate legal representation throughout your case. Our team at Dordick Law Corporation has helped many families win fair money for bites.

    We know the dog bite lawsuit process can feel stressful. That’s why we stay with you from start to finish. You never feel alone. We answer calls, explain every step, and push back when insurance companies try to pay less.

    How Much Does a Dog Bite Lawyer Cost? 

    Some people worry about paying for a lawyer. You won’t pay us upfront. We only get paid when we get money for you. Our fee comes from a portion of your settlement or award. You never face big legal bills while you recover. If we don’t win for you, you owe nothing.

    Protecting Yourself From Dangerous Dogs

    We want you and your family to be safe. Follow these tips to avoid dog bites:

    • Don’t pet strange dogs without asking the owner.
    • Teach kids never to bother a dog while it’s eating or sleeping.
    • Watch for warning signs like growling or stiff body language.
    • Report dangerous dogs to animal control.
    • Know your rights under California’s dangerous dog laws.

    Reporting bites and dangerous dogs also helps local authorities with disease control and public safety efforts.

    If you ever face a bite, know you’re not alone. An animal attack attorney and premises liability lawyer in Riverside can help.

    Talk with an Experienced Riverside Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Today

    Dog bites can flip your life upside down. From deep wounds to missed work to emotional scars, you deserve fair payment for all you’ve lost. The Dordick Law Corporation dog bite attorneys in Riverside know how to stand up to insurance companies and careless dog owners.

    Don’t wait and let bills pile up, contact our law firm. Talk to an experienced Riverside dog bite injury lawyer who knows how to fight for what you deserve under California dog bite law. Let us handle your dog bite lawsuit process so you can focus on getting better.

    Call Dordick Law Corporation at (310) 341-7176 for a free consultation. Our Riverside personal injury lawyers are ready to help you pursue legal action and answer your questions during your free legal consultation. Let’s talk about your options for compensation for bite injuries, covering medical expenses from dog bites, and helping your family feel whole again. Your call is free. Your peace of mind is priceless and we can get the compensation you deserve.

    Last Updated: August 4, 2025
    Testimonials
    I want to sincerely thank my attorney, Terry, and the entire team at Dordick Law for their incredible support and dedication. Although my case wasn’t a large one and the settlement was modest, they treated it with the same care and commitment as any major case. Terry’s time, effort, and compassion meant the world to me during a very challenging time. I’m especially grateful to my friend Jannette Cerda for referring me to Dordick Law and for being there every step of the way as my case manager. Her guidance and support made such a difference throughout the process. I’d also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Araceli Alvarez and Brittney Rodriguez, the legal assistants on my case, for their professionalism, kindness, and constant communication. Their attention to detail and willingness to help at every step did not go unnoticed. Thank you again to Terry, Mr. Dordick, Jannette, Araceli, Brittney, and the entire Dordick Law team for everything. Your work makes a real difference, and I’m so thankful for all you’ve done.
    — Nicole D.
    Terry Cole is an excellent attorney, and I greatly appreciated his advocacy, advice, and expertise throughout a difficult time in my life. I highly recommend Dordick Law.
    — Eugene C.
    Gary Dordick and his entire team are fantastic trial attorneys. They fight for their clients and change lives one case at a time.
    — Evynne F.
    After sustaining several injuries resulting in surgical procedures and ongoing pain from a commercial vehicle dragging my car, I am grateful I was referred to Dordick Law Firm. My first meeting with Dorick Law was with the founder of the firm, Gary Dordick. My initial and lasting impression of Gary Dordick was that he listened, genuinely cared about what I had endured since my accident, and wanted to help me. My case was assigned to Attorney Nicholas Myers and an outstanding team that worked not only to secure a settlement for my case but to ensure I received the medical treatment I needed to improve the quality of my life. Nicholas was responsive, compassionate, and determined to end my case with a settlement to support my long-term needs due to the injuries I had sustained. Nicolas Myers, Maricruz, Ali, Cristina, and the entire team at Dordick Law are indeed the voice and advocate for their client. A sincere thank you to each of you.
    — Bonnie T.
    The Dordick Law team settled an injury case for us over the course of 3.5 years. They worked hard for us and really cared about making the process as painless as possible, honoring the sensitivity of our injuries. They succeeded in getting us a fair settlement WITHOUT having to go to trial. We will always be thankful to them and their large team. Cant recommend them enough!
    — Andrea F.
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    Dordick Law Corporation is committed to answering your questions about Motorcycle Collisions, Car/Truck Accidents, Wrongful Termination, Dog Bites, Sexual Harassment/Rape, Construction Injuries, Product Defects, Medical Malpractice, Trip/Slip and Fall, Food Poisoning, Negligent Security, Chemical Exposure, Birth Injuries, and Pedestrian Accidents legal issues in California.

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