California Dog Bite Laws in San Bernardino

Dog bites can cause serious injuries and legal issues, especially in San Bernardino. Knowing the laws about dog ownership and liability is important for both pet owners and those harmed. If you or someone you know has been affected by a dog bite, it's vital to get legal advice to understand your options and rights. Don't hesitate to contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers at 844-844-9119 to protect yourself and pursue justice.

Dog bites can be traumatic, painful, and even life-threatening. In San Bernardino, where many residents enjoy pets in both urban neighborhoods and suburban areas, dog attacks can happen anywhere, at a public park, on a sidewalk, or even at a neighbor’s home. When these incidents occur, victims often face physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress. Understanding your legal rights under California dog bite laws is critical to protecting yourself and seeking the compensation you deserve.

California law is clear and favorable to dog bite victims. The state imposes strict liability on dog owners in most situations, meaning you do not need to prove negligence to hold them accountable. If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog in San Bernardino, learning how these laws apply can help you take the proper steps toward recovery and justice.

California's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is legally responsible for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the dog owner’s property. This rule is known as strict liability and applies regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or the owner had any prior knowledge of dangerous behavior.

Key Elements of Strict Liability:

• The bite occurred in a public space or while the victim was lawfully on private property.

• The person bitten did not provoke the dog.

• The defendant is the dog’s legal owner.

This means a dog owner in San Bernardino cannot avoid liability by claiming they didn’t know the dog was dangerous or had never bitten anyone before. Unlike the “one-bite rule” used in some other states, California places the burden on dog owners to prevent bites from happening in the first place.

Exceptions to California's Dog Bite Law

While California law is generally victim-friendly, there are a few exceptions where strict liability does not apply:

• Trespassing: If the victim was illegally on private property, the owner may not be held strictly liable.

• Military or police dogs: Injuries caused by working dogs during official duties may be exempt under certain conditions.

• Provocation: If the dog was provoked or attacked, and the bite was in self-defense, liability may be reduced or denied.

• Veterinarians or groomers: People who work professionally with animals and assume certain risks may not be able to sue under strict liability.

Even in these exceptions, a victim may still pursue a negligence claim if the owner failed to act reasonably under the circumstances.

Common Dog Bite Injuries in San Bernardino

Dog bite injuries can range from mild to catastrophic. In some cases, victims, especially children or the elderly, may require emergency care, surgery, or long-term rehabilitation. Common injuries include:

• Puncture wounds

• Lacerations and torn skin

• Nerve damage

• Infections, including rabies or tetanus

• Facial injuries or disfigurement

• Emotional trauma or post-traumatic stress

San Bernardino residents who suffer from these injuries may require treatment at facilities such as Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, or urgent care centers throughout the Inland Empire.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in San Bernardino

If you are bitten by a dog, taking the proper steps immediately can protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your safety comes first. Even minor bites can cause serious infections if left untreated.

2. Report the Bite

Contact San Bernardino Animal Control or the San Bernardino Police Department to report the incident. An official report helps document the event.

3. Identify the Dog and Owner

Try to get the owner’s name, address, and proof of rabies vaccination.

4. Take Photos and Collect Evidence

Photograph your injuries, the scene of the bite, and the dog, if possible.

5. Speak to Witnesses

If anyone saw the attack, gather their contact information.

6. Contact a Dog Bite Attorney

An experienced San Bernardino dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries.

Liability Beyond the Dog Owner

In some cases, other parties may also be liable for a dog bite:

• Landlords: If a landlord knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to act, they may share responsibility.

• Property managers or businesses: If the dog bite occurred at a commercial location (such as a pet-friendly store or Airbnb), the property owner may be partially liable for the incident.

• Caregivers or dog walkers: If someone else was in charge of the dog when the attack occurred, they could be held accountable depending on the circumstances.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in California

Victims of dog bites in San Bernardino may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Emergency treatment, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation

• Lost income: Wages lost due to time off work

• Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional distress

• Scarring or disfigurement: Especially in facial injuries or cases requiring cosmetic surgery

• Future care: Ongoing physical therapy, counseling, or reconstructive procedures

Every case is unique, and damages depend on the severity of the injury and its long-term impact.

How Countrywide Trial Lawyers Can Help

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we know that a dog bite can leave lasting trauma. Our team understands how California law works and how to hold negligent dog owners accountable. We offer personalized attention and a trial-ready approach for every client.

When you choose our firm, you get:

• A thorough investigation of the incident

• Help identify all liable parties.

• Support with medical documentation and insurance claims

• Aggressive negotiations for full compensation

• A willingness to take your case to court if needed

We’ve handled a wide range of premises liability and injury cases in San Bernardino and are proud to advocate for victims throughout the region.

Speak with a San Bernardino Dog Bite Lawyer Today

Dog bite injuries can have serious consequences. If you or a loved one has been bitten in San Bernardino, whether near Perris Hill Park, along Highland Avenue, or in your neighborhood, don’t wait to get legal help.

Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. We serve clients in San Bernardino, Rialto, Colton, Highland, and surrounding areas. Let us help you pursue the compensation and closure you deserve.