Dog attacks can happen in an instant, leaving you with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma that lingers long after the physical wounds heal. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident in San Diego, you need experienced San Diego dog bite lawyers who understand California’s strict liability laws and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve. The Advocates Injury Attorneys have successfully represented countless dog bite victims across Southern California, recovering millions in damages for our clients.
Call us today at 1-888-565-5277 for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win your case.
Puncture wounds and lacerations that penetrate tissue, muscles, and bone
Nerve damage causing permanent loss of sensation or motor function
Infections and disease, including rabies, tetanus, and bacterial infections
Scarring and disfigurement that may necessitate surgical procedures
Fractures and broken bones from being knocked down during an attack
Including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety
You have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit under California’s statute of limitations. If you’re filing a claim against a government entity (for example, if a police dog or animal control dog injured you), you must file an administrative claim within six months. Missing these deadlines typically means losing your right to compensation, so it’s crucial to act quickly.
If the dog owner lacks homeowners or renters insurance, you may still recover compensation through other means. Options include filing a claim against your own uninsured motorist coverage (in some situations), pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the owner directly, or identifying other potentially liable parties such as landlords or property owners. An experienced attorney can identify all available sources of recovery.
Yes. California’s strict liability statute applies regardless of your relationship with the dog owner. You’re actually filing a claim against the owner’s insurance policy, not personally suing your friend or family member. Most homeowners understand this and want you to receive compensation for your injuries. Our attorneys handle these sensitive situations with discretion and respect for your relationships.
Under California’s strict liability law, it doesn’t matter whether the dog has a history of aggression or has bitten anyone previously. The owner is liable for your injuries regardless. This “one free bite” rule that exists in some states does not apply in California. You only need to prove the dog bit you and you were lawfully present where the attack occurred.
While California law doesn’t require you to hire an attorney, having experienced legal representation can significantly increase the compensation you receive. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements to unrepresented victims, knowing most people don’t understand the full value of their claim. Our attorneys know how to accurately value your case, negotiate effectively with insurers, and take your case to trial if necessary. Remember, we work on contingency — you pay nothing unless we win.
When you’re facing medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional aftermath of a dog attack, you need advocates who will fight tirelessly for your rights. Here’s what sets our San Diego dog bite lawyers apart:
Proven Track Record of Results. We’ve successfully represented hundreds of dog bite victims across California and the United States, securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our experience with insurance companies and their tactics allows us to maximize your compensation while you focus on healing.
No Upfront Costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no hourly fees, no retainers, and no hidden costs. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
Multidisciplinary Resources. Dog bite cases often require expert testimony from medical professionals, animal behaviorists, and economists who can testify about future damages. We have an established network of expert witnesses who strengthen your claim and validate your losses.
The Advocates Injury Attorneys handle all aspects of your dog bite claim, from filing the initial complaint to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to trial. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation while minimizing the stress and burden on you and your family.
I was in an accident 3 years ago and had a very bad experience with the attorney back then I was in another accident last year and called the advocates mark and his team were amazing changed my view on accident attorneys they kept I'm touch with me every step of the way gave me authority on choices for myself I didn't have to go with what they said I could go against it and they still would have worked with me the same I had choices this time around I would always go with Mark I have even sent friends his way just cause I appreciate all the help and support the whole way threw.
My experience with the advocates was a good one. After being hit by a car on my motorcycle they helped me with a settlement with the insurance company to get the hospital bills paid. They were extremely helpful. They always answered any questions I had with in a day. Every email I sent was always responded to. If you unfortunately has to go through a injury by another person I would recommend them in helping you resolve any debt you have because if that injury. The Advocates were great to work with and help me get this unfortunate event behind me.
Steve and his crew at The Advocates were nothing short for amazing. They took my case after I was rear-ended resulting in neck surgery. Steve and company made sure all of the was taken care of and that I got the maximum compensation possible. I definitely recommend The Advocates
Mr. Brad Johnson, our lawyer; was Awesome! He was very informative, kept us up to date on my case with regular calls. He returned calls back to us within 24 hours or less. Brad Johnson is very courteous, honest, kind, and a pleasure to talk to and work with. There are very few Lawyers out there that could even come close to the high morals that Brad Johnson has and has shown towards us. We need more lawyers like Brad Johnson . If we ever needed a disability lawyer again in the future; it would be Brad Johnson and The Advocates Firm that he works at. We will definitely turn ALL of our family and friends towards this lawyer and firm; in a heartbeat!!!
I want to First say that I am truly thankful for the advocates Law Firm they have been a great service to me through this ordeal and Katie she is a tremendous lawyer someone that I would recommend she fights tooth and nail for her clients and the rest of the team they supported me to the fullest with that being said I would like to say for anyone who is trying to find an attorney to fight their case The Advocates is the way to go.
The actions you take immediately after a dog attack can significantly impact both your health and your legal claim. Follow these steps to protect yourself:
California law allows dog bite victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages. The compensation you receive depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the strength of the evidence in your case.
Economic damages compensate for measurable financial losses:
Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses:
California does not cap non-economic damages in dog bite cases (caps exist only for medical malpractice). This means substantial compensation is available for severe scarring, especially facial disfigurement, and psychological trauma.
Understanding the legal process helps reduce anxiety and sets realistic expectations. Here’s what to expect when you work with The Advocates Injury Attorneys on your San Diego dog bite case:
Initial Consultation (Free). We’ll discuss what happened, review any documentation you have, assess the strength of your claim, and explain your legal rights. This consultation is completely free and confidential.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering. Once you retain our services, we immediately begin investigating. This includes obtaining the official animal control report, gathering medical records, interviewing witnesses, photographing the scene, and researching the dog’s history. We also send preservation letters to ensure evidence isn’t destroyed.
Demand and Negotiation. After you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (or we have a clear understanding of your ongoing needs), we prepare a detailed demand package and submit it to the insurance company. This package includes all medical records, bills, employment documentation, expert opinions, and a comprehensive explanation of your damages. Most dog bite cases settle during this phase.
Filing a Lawsuit. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we file a lawsuit in San Diego County Superior Court. California’s statute of limitations for dog bite claims is two years from the date of the injury under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to compensation forever.
Discovery. Both sides exchange information through written questions (interrogatories), document requests, and depositions where witnesses and parties give sworn testimony. This process can take several months but strengthens your negotiating position.
Mediation and Settlement. Many cases settle through mediation, where a neutral third party helps facilitate negotiations. If we reach an acceptable settlement, the case concludes. If not, we prepare for trial.
Trial. If necessary, we’ll present your case to a San Diego jury. Our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers prepared to fight for maximum compensation in the courtroom.
The timeline varies based on case complexity, injury severity, and the insurance company’s cooperation. Simple cases with clear liability and moderate injuries might resolve in 3-6 months. Complex cases involving severe injuries, multiple surgeries, or disputed liability can take 12-24 months or longer. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and make sure you understand each development.
Dog attacks leave victims with physical scars, emotional trauma, and financial burdens that can last a lifetime. You shouldn’t have to face recovery alone or accept less compensation than you deserve. The Advocates Injury Attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and hold negligent dog owners accountable.
Our San Diego dog bite lawyers offer free consultations with no obligation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and explain exactly what we can do to help. If we take your case, you pay nothing upfront and nothing out of pocket — we only get paid if we win your case.
Call us now at 1-888-565-5277 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. Let The Advocates Injury Attorneys fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.
Our San Diego wrongful death attorneys serve families throughout San Diego County, including Carlsbad, Vista, Chula Vista, Escondido, Oceanside, El Cajon, National City, Rancho San Diego, Mira Mesa, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, Clairemont, and surrounding communities. We handle wrongful death cases arising anywhere in California and will travel to meet with you during this difficult time.
