Being bitten by a friend’s dog is when a trusted Los Angeles dog bite attorney can help you recover with dignity and without damaging personal relationships. In many cases, people hesitate to take legal action because they fear it may hurt their friendships. However, California law offers protections and clear paths to compensation that can help you heal physically and financially—without the drama.
California Civil Code Section 3342 enforces a strict liability standard for dog bites. This means that a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property, regardless of the animal’s past behavior. You don’t have to prove negligence—just that the bite occurred and caused injury. A Los Angeles dog bite attorney can explain how this law applies to your case and guide you through the claims process.
One of the most common concerns bite victims face is the fear of harming their friendship with the dog’s owner. What most people don’t realize is that in the majority of cases, the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy—not the individual—pays for damages. These policies often cover between $100,000 to $300,000 in liability, including medical expenses and lost wages. Understanding this can help remove the guilt or awkwardness of filing a claim. An experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorney can handle communication with the insurance company on your behalf, so you don’t have to involve your friend directly.
ANTN Law recently worked with a woman who was bitten by her neighbor’s dog during a casual visit. Initially hesitant to pursue compensation, she eventually reached out to a Los Angeles dog bite attorney from our firm. We were able to secure a $125,000 insurance settlement to cover her surgery and rehabilitation—without ever involving the neighbor in negotiations. They remain on good terms to this day, and she was able to heal without financial stress.
According to Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, there were more than 5,600 dog bites reported in 2022. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, dog ownership has increased substantially across Southern California, and so has the number of bite incidents. This rise is especially prominent in urban neighborhoods where pet owners and pedestrians frequently interact. If you’ve been bitten, don’t wait to speak to a Los Angeles dog bite attorney—there are deadlines to file your claim.
This visual guide from ANTN Law outlines what to do immediately after a dog bite, including documentation and reporting tips.
ANTN Law is dedicated to providing compassionate, strategic legal support for victims of dog bites. We understand that these incidents often involve people you know and care about. Our team of experienced Los Angeles dog bite attorneys focuses on securing your compensation while minimizing personal tension. We handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering medical records and negotiating with insurance companies to filing suit if necessary. With ANTN Law, you’ll have a team that cares about your recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially.
A: While strict liability remains unchanged, many cities, including Los Angeles, are increasing fines for unregistered or unvaccinated dogs involved in bite incidents. Local animal control departments also now have improved digital bite tracking systems.
A: Yes. California follows comparative fault rules. Even if you were partially responsible (e.g., provoking the dog), you may still recover partial damages depending on the circumstances.
A: The statute of limitations in California is two years from the date of the incident. Consulting a Los Angeles dog bite attorney early ensures you meet all legal deadlines.
If you’ve been injured by a dog—even one owned by a friend—don’t suffer in silence. Schedule a free consultation with ANTN Law. We’ll walk you through your rights, discuss the next steps, and help you seek the compensation you deserve—without the drama.
