Call Now 24/7 • Free Consultation • Hablamos Español:
Call Now 24/7 • Free Consultation • Hablamos Español:
A dog bite can have serious consequences, often impacting the victim’s physical and emotional well-being, as well as resulting in significant medical costs. While these incidents may initially seem minor, they can lead to deep wounds, infections, nerve damage, and disfigurement, which can be especially traumatic for children both physically and mentally.
In Ontario, CA, dog bites can occur in various settings, including neighborhoods, apartment complexes, public parks such as Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, and even within rental homes or businesses that permit pets. Although most dogs are friendly companions, it's essential to recognize that even a moment of aggression or negligence from a pet owner can lead to life-changing injuries.
California has established explicit legal protections for dog bite victims through its strict liability laws. These laws typically hold dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal's past behavior. Victims are only required to demonstrate that the bite occurred while they were lawfully present, which simplifies the process of seeking accountability.
However, obtaining fair compensation can still be challenging, as insurance companies may attempt to downplay injuries, deny responsibility, or place blame on the victim. This underscores the importance of having a skilled legal advocate to guide you through the process.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we are dedicated to assisting clients in Ontario in seeking full and fair compensation following dog attacks. Whether your incident took place in a residential area, a rental property, or a public venue, our team is experienced in investigating cases, gathering evidence, and ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable.
If you or a loved one has experienced an animal bite injury in Ontario, we're here to help you understand your rights and navigate the necessary steps to take action.
California is one of the most victim-friendly states in the country when it comes to dog bite liability. The state operates under a strict liability rule, meaning a dog owner can be held legally responsible for a bite, even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
Under California Civil Code § 3342, a dog owner is liable if:
This statute removes the burden of proving negligence, which is often required in other types of personal injury cases. As long as the victim wasn’t trespassing, provoking the dog, or otherwise acting unlawfully, the owner is responsible for the injuries caused.
California’s strict liability law simplifies the legal process for many victims, but it doesn’t guarantee an easy settlement. Insurance companies may still try to fight or minimize your claim.
Our team of skilled dog bite lawyers in Ontario will know how to apply this law, protect your rights, and fight for the full compensation you deserve, whether through a claim, negotiation, or lawsuit.
Dog bites can cause far more than surface wounds. The force of a dog’s jaw, especially from large breeds, can crush tissue, sever tendons, and inflict devastating damage in just a few seconds. The risk is exceptionally high for children, whose faces and necks are closer to a dog’s mouth and who may not know how to react during an attack.
If you’ve suffered an animal bite injury in Ontario, here are some of the most common medical complications victims face:
Dog teeth can penetrate skin, muscle, and even bone. Victims often require emergency treatment to stop bleeding, close wounds, and prevent infection.
A bite to the hands, arms, or face may result in nerve damage, leading to chronic pain, numbness, or partial paralysis, sometimes permanently.
Up to 20% of dog bites become infected. Common infections include cellulitis, tetanus, and even rabies if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown. Treatment may require hospitalization and IV antibiotics.
Many bite injuries, especially on the face, result in permanent scarring. Victims may require multiple plastic surgeries and still experience visible disfigurement, which can deeply affect self-esteem and social confidence.
The emotional effects of a dog attack can last long after physical wounds heal. Common psychological impacts include:
Some victims require follow-up surgeries, physical therapy, mental health counseling, or assistive devices, adding to the financial burden.
The aftermath of a dog attack is rarely simple. Injuries often lead to missed work, school disruptions, strained family dynamics, and ongoing medical expenses.
A dog attack attorney in Ontario can help you document all these effects and fight for compensation that covers both the short-term and lifelong impact of your injuries, not just what an insurance adjuster deems “reasonable.”
In many cases, the dog’s owner is the primary person responsible for the attack, but liability doesn’t always stop there. Depending on where and how the attack occurred, multiple parties may be legally accountable for your injuries. A thorough investigation by a knowledgeable dog attack attorney in Ontario can uncover all potential sources of compensation.
Here’s a breakdown of who may be held liable:
Under California’s strict liability law, the owner is responsible if their dog bites someone in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property. This applies even if the dog had no history of aggression.
If the attack occurred in a rental unit or apartment complex, the landlord may share liability, especially if:
Landlords have a legal duty to protect tenants and visitors from known hazards on the premises.
If someone other than the owner was caring for the dog at the time of the incident (e.g., a friend, professional dog walker, or kennel staff), they could also be held responsible if their negligence contributed to the attack.
Suppose the bite occurred in a store, café, or other business where dogs were allowed. In that case, the property or business owner may be partially liable, particularly if they failed to enforce safety rules or were negligent in supervising the pet.
If a minor owns the dog, the child’s parent or guardian may be held liable for failing to supervise both the dog and the child’s behavior.
In most cases, claims are filed through the dog owner’s insurance provider, which may offer coverage for bite-related injuries, even if the incident occurred away from the owner’s property.
An experienced dog bite lawyer in Ontario will determine all liable parties and pursue every available path to maximize your recovery.
The minutes and days after a dog attack are critical not just for your physical well-being, but for preserving the strength of your legal claim. If you or a loved one suffered an animal bite injury in Ontario, here’s what to do next:
Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to be seen by a doctor. Dog bites can lead to serious infections, nerve damage, or internal injuries. Early treatment also creates a medical record that supports your case.
Ask for the dog owner’s name, contact information, and whether the dog is up to date on rabies vaccinations. If the owner refuses or flees, write down a description of the dog and contact Ontario Animal Services right away.
Filing a report with San Bernardino County Animal Control is essential. It creates an official record of the incident and may reveal whether the dog has a history of aggression.
Take photos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog (if safe to do so). Keep copies of all medical records, prescriptions, and related expenses. Write down your account of what happened while it’s still fresh.
If anyone saw the incident, ask for their names and contact details. Their statements can support your version of events and help establish liability.
The dog owner’s insurance company may contact you quickly. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting a settlement until you’ve consulted a lawyer.
The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case. A lawyer can handle communications, preserve evidence, and guide you through your legal options.
Filing a legal claim after a dog bite may feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to recover physically and emotionally. But with the proper support and understanding of the process, you can pursue a strong animal bite injury claim in Ontario and recover the compensation you need.
Here’s how the process typically works:
Your priority is your health. After receiving care, report the attack to Ontario Animal Services or San Bernardino County Animal Control.
This official report is often a key part of your case. Ontario Animal Services plays a crucial role in documenting and investigating animal bite incidents. They work to ensure public safety by assessing the behavior of the animal involved and determining if further action is necessary, such as quarantine or behavioral evaluation.
Additionally, their reports can serve as critical evidence in legal proceedings, helping to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In many cases, the dog owner’s homeowners or renters' insurance will cover injuries caused by the dog, even if the bite occurred outside their property. Your attorney can help request coverage information and begin the claim process.
Before filing anything formally, consult with a local attorney. They can assess liability, calculate the value of your claim, and ensure you avoid common mistakes, such as accepting an early lowball settlement.
Your lawyer will prepare a formal demand outlining your injuries, expenses, and the compensation you’re seeking. This is submitted to the dog owner’s insurer or directly to the responsible party.
Most dog bite cases are resolved out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to secure a settlement that reflects your medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
If the insurer denies your claim or refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may recommend filing a personal injury lawsuit in civil court.
You generally have two years from the date of the bite to file a claim. For minors, the two-year clock begins when they turn 18. Acting promptly ensures your rights are protected.
Whether you’re dealing with an uncooperative pet owner, unclear liability, or a resistant insurance company, a seasoned dog attack attorney in Ontario can guide you every step of the way.
Dog attacks can result in far more than physical pain. Many victims face long-term emotional trauma, scarring, and financial hardship. Suppose you’ve been bitten in Ontario, CA. In that case, you may be entitled to significant compensation, especially with the help of an experienced dog bite lawyer in Ontario who knows how to present the full scope of your losses.
Here are the main types of compensation you may recover:
This includes all past, current, and future costs associated with treatment, such as:
Your attorney will work with medical experts to project long-term care needs and include them in your claim.
If your injuries caused you to miss work or if they impact your ability to earn a living in the future, you can recover:
This is particularly important for victims in physically demanding jobs or children whose injuries may affect future career options.
Dog bite victims often endure intense physical pain, long recovery periods, and permanent disfigurement. California law allows compensation for:
This is often the most significant portion of a dog bite settlement, particularly in cases involving children.
If the attack caused visible scars, nerve damage, or loss of function, you may be entitled to damages for permanent impairment or reduced quality of life.
You may also recover for practical expenses, including:
If the dog’s owner acted with gross negligence, such as keeping a known dangerous dog unsecured, you may also seek punitive damages to punish the behavior and deter future harm.
Each case is unique. A knowledgeable dog attack attorney in Ontario will carefully evaluate your situation, gather the proper evidence, and fight to ensure you receive every dollar you're owed.
After a dog bite, you may be dealing with physical pain, emotional trauma, and a growing pile of medical bills. Navigating the legal system independently, particularly when dealing with an uncooperative dog owner or insurance company, can make recovery even more challenging. That’s where a skilled dog bite lawyer in Ontario comes in.
Here’s how we help you take control of your case from day one:
We collect key evidence that supports your claim, including:
This evidence strengthens your claim and helps prove strict liability or negligence, depending on the circumstances.
Some cases involve more than just the dog’s owner. We’ll determine whether landlords, property managers, dog sitters, or business owners also share responsibility, so we can pursue all available sources of compensation.
Insurers may try to delay your claim, downplay your injuries, or offer a low settlement. We step in to manage all communication, file a strong demand, and push for maximum compensation, without the stress falling on you.
Insurance companies often employ tactics such as disputing the severity of your injuries or questioning the necessity of your medical treatments to minimize payouts. They might also request excessive documentation or delay responses to wear you down into accepting a lower settlement. By using these strategies, they aim to protect their bottom line rather than offer fair compensation.
We work with medical experts, therapists, and financial specialists to account for both current and future costs, including:
While many cases settle outside of court, we prepare every case as if it could go to trial. If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, we’re ready to file a lawsuit and present your case before a judge or jury.
Thorough case preparation is crucial because it ensures all aspects of the case are meticulously examined, leaving no stone unturned. By gathering comprehensive evidence and expert testimonies, we strengthen our position, making it more likely to secure a favorable settlement or verdict. Additionally, being well-prepared demonstrates to the opposing party and the court that we are serious and committed, which can deter lowball offers and encourage fair negotiations.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we know how devastating a dog attack can be. We fight for victims throughout Ontario with compassion, skill, and unwavering determination, so you don’t have to go through it alone.
In early spring, Maria L., a 42-year-old postal carrier in Ontario, CA, was making her usual deliveries along a residential route near Vineyard Avenue. As she approached a home’s front gate, a large mixed-breed dog burst through a damaged fence and bit her on the thigh and arm. The attack caused deep lacerations, nerve damage, and left Maria with permanent scarring and limited mobility in her right hand.
The dog’s owner claimed the attack was Maria’s fault, stating she had entered without knocking and that the dog had “never bitten anyone before.” Maria filed a report with Ontario Animal Services, and it was revealed that the dog had a prior history of aggression, though it had never been officially reported.
Maria contacted Countrywide Trial Lawyers for help.
Our legal team gathered extensive evidence, including:
We filed a claim with the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy and began negotiations.
After rejecting an initial low offer, we successfully negotiated a $285,000 settlement, which covered:
Maria now has the resources she needs to recover and move forward without financial stress.
Yes. California is a strict liability state. The dog’s bite history doesn’t matter. As long as you were lawfully present when the bite occurred, the owner is typically responsible.
You may still have a case. If you were invited, working (like a delivery driver), or otherwise lawfully on the property, you’re protected under the law. Trespassers generally are not.
Yes. If the dog was off-leash or running loose, this can strengthen your claim by showing the owner failed to follow Ontario’s leash ordinance, which requires dogs to be restrained in public.
Sometimes. If a landlord knew about a dangerous dog and failed to act or didn’t enforce property rules, they may share liability, especially in common areas or multi-unit buildings.
Children are especially protected under California law. You can file a claim on your child’s behalf, and courts often award higher compensation for pain, trauma, and potential long-term effects.
Generally, you have two years from the date of the bite. For children, the two-year clock starts when they turn 18. Prompt action is best for evidence preservation.
Report the incident to Ontario Animal Services immediately. Sometimes, witnesses, surveillance cameras, or neighborhood records can help track the dog and its owner.
Yes. Psychological harm, such as PTSD, anxiety, or social withdrawal, is compensable under California personal injury law, especially in cases involving children or visible disfigurement.
Timely reporting of dog bite incidents is crucial for several reasons. It helps ensure that evidence is preserved, which can be critical in building a strong case. Additionally, prompt reporting allows authorities to take necessary actions to prevent further incidents and identify the responsible parties.
Even if the insurer makes that argument, California law favors the victim. Your attorney can counter this with witness statements, medical evidence, and expert testimony to show your conduct didn’t justify the attack.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, there’s no upfront cost. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Your consultation is free.
If you or someone you care about has experienced a dog attack, it's essential to recognize the severity of these injuries. The impact can be profound, affecting not only physical health with pain and lasting scars but also emotional well-being and financial stability. Dog bites can lead to significant changes in life, often with long-term repercussions.
You don’t have to navigate this challenging situation on your own. California law supports victims, and we are here to help you through the process.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we have successfully aided numerous individuals across Ontario and the Inland Empire in seeking justice and appropriate compensation. Whether the incident took place in a neighborhood, on rental property, or in a public area, we are equipped to construct strong claims, negotiate with insurance companies, and hold irresponsible dog owners accountable.
When you choose to work with us, you benefit from:
Additionally, our commitment means you won’t incur any fees unless we achieve a successful outcome for your case.
If you're ready to take action or gain clarity about your situation, we encourage you to contact us by calling 844-844-9119 today for a free consultation. We will explain your rights, explore your options, and support you in taking the necessary steps toward healing and justice.
Don't hesitate to seek the legal help you need. Acting promptly can significantly strengthen your case.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
