NEW CALIFORNIA DOG BITE DISCLOSURE – WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW IF BITTEN BY A DOG?

Posted on Thursday, January 30th, 2020 at 12:19 am    

California dog bite laws give victims legal grounds to recover compensation for injuries and damages caused by dog attacks. However, dog bite laws can be complicated, and cases are not always easy to win. Laws can change, such as the new dog bite disclosure law. Hiring a Sacramento dog bite attorney who understands the law and the legal requirements to prove liability gives victims a better chance of receiving a just and fair settlement after being bitten by a dog.

New Dog Bite Disclosure Law in California

A new dog bite disclosure law became effective as of January 1, 2020. The bill, signed into law on October 2, 2019, by Gov. Newsom, requires certain groups to disclose information regarding the bite history of a dog that is being adopted.

California Assembly Bill 588 requires humane societies, animal shelters, and rescue groups to inform a potential adopter of the known bite history of the dog. Adopters are required to sign a statement verifying that they have been informed of the dog’s bite history. Dogs that are placed for adoption, transferred, or given away are subject to the new law.

The law does not prohibit a dog that has a known bite history from being adopted or given away. It does protect people from adopting a dog with a known bite history by ensuring they are aware of the dog’s history before deciding whether to adopt the dog.

California’s Strict Liability for Dog Attacks and Dog Bites

Dog owners can be held strictly liable for damages if their dog attacks or bites someone. As long as the person did not provoke the dog and was legally on private or public property when the attack occurred, the dog owner is liable for damages. However, the victim must prove that the dog did in fact bite the victim, and the victim sustained damages to recover compensation for damages. The dog owner could also have one or more defenses in some cases.

Five Steps to Take After a California Dog Bite

The steps you take after being bitten by a dog in California can make a difference in how your dog bite claim is resolved. Five steps that can help protect your legal rights after a dog bite are:

1.  Seek medical attention for the dog bite. Even a minor dog bite injury can result in infections or other complications that impact your health and wellbeing.

2.  Photograph your injury. Taking pictures of the dog bite injury as soon as possible after the attack helps document the injury for a claim.

3.  Report the dog bite. Report the dog bite to the dog owner and local animal control agencies.

4.  Ask eyewitnesses for contact information. Eyewitness testimony can be extremely valuable when establishing fault for a dog bite claim. Ask witnesses for their names and contact information.

5.  Contact a Sacramento Dog Bite Injury Lawyer immediately. An attorney familiar with dog bite laws and dog bite injury claims can help you take the additional steps necessary to hold the dog owner responsible for medical bills, loss of income, emotional distress, scarring, physical pain, and other damages.

Contact Our Sacramento Dog Bite Attorneys for Help

To schedule a free consultation with one of our Sacramento dog attack attorneys to discuss your case, call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
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I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
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I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
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The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
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I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
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Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Star Fire Testimonial
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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
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I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
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Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Lendzey Garcia
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