Dog Bite Lawyer Woodland Hills

Woodland Hills Dog Bite Attorney — Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Woodland Hills or anywhere in the San Fernando Valley, attorney Ron Fomalont can help you get the compensation you deserve. California’s strict liability law means the dog owner is responsible for your injuries regardless of the dog’s history.

California’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This means you do not need to prove the owner was negligent or that the dog had previously bitten someone. If the bite occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property, the owner is liable.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

• Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization costs
• Reconstructive and plastic surgery for scarring
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering damages
• Emotional distress (PTSD, anxiety, cynophobia)
• Future medical costs and ongoing treatment

What to Do After a Dog Bite

1. Seek immediate medical attention
2. Photograph your injuries and the location of the attack
3. Identify the dog and owner — get their name, address, and rabies vaccination proof
4. Report the bite to LA County Animal Care and Control
5. Do not give a recorded statement to the owner’s insurance company
6. Contact a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a dog owner always liable for a bite in California?

Yes. California Civil Code Section 3342 imposes strict liability on dog owners. The owner is responsible for injuries regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before or whether the owner knew the dog was aggressive.

What compensation can I get for a dog bite injury?

You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement damages, emotional distress, and future treatment costs. The value depends on the severity of your injuries.

How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in California?

The statute of limitations for personal injury in California is two years from the date of the bite. For minors, the clock typically starts when they turn 18.

How much does it cost to hire Fomalont Law?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis — our fee is a percentage of your recovery. If we do not win your case, you pay nothing.

Call (310) 459-9400 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Attorney Ron Fomalont has been fighting for injury victims in the San Fernando Valley since 1994.