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Experienced Dog Bite Attorney in North Hollywood, CA

North Hollywood is known for its vibrant arts district, family-friendly neighborhoods, and bustling dog parks. With more residents and pet owners enjoying outdoor spaces, sidewalks, and apartment complexes, interactions between people and pets are on the rise—and unfortunately, so are dog bites.

While most dogs are well-behaved and loved family companions, even a single moment of aggression can lead to serious, sometimes life-altering injuries. Dog bites often result in deep puncture wounds, nerve damage, infections, scarring, and in severe cases, long-term disability. For children, the trauma is especially devastating—both physically and emotionally. These are not minor incidents; they deserve serious legal attention.

At Tim Wright Law, we understand the pain and confusion that follows a dog bite, especially when it happens in your own community. Whether the attack occurred in a local dog park, on a neighborhood sidewalk, or in an apartment courtyard, you have the right to seek justice—and we’re here to help you get it. Our legal team is deeply experienced in California dog bite law and committed to representing victims across North Hollywood and the greater Los Angeles area.

Understanding California’s Dog Bite Law

California Civil Code § 3342 – Strict Liability

Under California Civil Code § 3342, a dog owner is legally responsible for injuries caused by their dog regardless of the dog’s history. This is known as strict liability—meaning the owner does not have to be negligent, nor does the dog have to have bitten anyone before, for a victim to file a claim.

No Prior Aggression or “One Free Bite” Needed

Unlike in some other states, California law does not give dog owners a "free pass" if it's their pet’s first incident. Even if the dog was previously friendly and never showed signs of aggression, the law still holds the owner accountable. This is critical in helping victims receive swift compensation without the burden of proving the dog was dangerous.

Applies to Both Public and Private Spaces

The statute applies when a bite occurs in:

  • Public places such as sidewalks, parks, or apartment common areas.
  • Private property if the victim was lawfully present—such as a guest, delivery driver, or service technician.

This ensures that people lawfully in a space where a dog is present are protected under the law.

No Need to Prove Negligence

One of the strongest aspects of California’s dog bite law is that you do not have to prove negligence. Unlike other personal injury cases, there’s no need to show that the owner failed to leash the dog, warn you, or take reasonable precautions. The fact that the bite occurred is enough to establish liability.

At Tim Wright Law, we use this statute to fight for full compensation for victims—without unnecessary delays or legal hurdles. If you or your child has been bitten by a dog in North Hollywood, you likely have a strong claim, and we’re here to help you assert it.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Dog bites can lead to serious infections, nerve damage, or scarring—even when the injury looks minor at first. Visit an emergency room or urgent care provider as soon as possible for:

  • Wound cleaning and closure
  • Tetanus or rabies shots (if needed)
  • Documentation of the injury for your medical records

Report the Bite to Animal Services or LAPD

All dog bites in North Hollywood should be reported to:

  • Los Angeles County Animal Services at (888) 452-7381, or
  • LAPD’s North Hollywood Division, especially if the bite occurred in a public space or the dog is aggressive.

Reporting the incident creates an official record and may help identify if the dog has a history of aggression, which can support your legal case.

Photograph Injuries and the Scene

Use your phone or camera to capture:

  • Clear images of your wounds
  • Torn or bloodied clothing
  • The area where the attack occurred
  • The dog, if possible, from a safe distance

These photos serve as visual evidence and can be pivotal when negotiating with insurers or presenting your case in court.

Collect Dog Owner’s Information

Politely request the dog owner’s:

  • Full name and contact information
  • Homeowners or renters insurance details
  • Proof of rabies vaccination

If there are any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers as well.

Contact a North Hollywood Dog Bite Attorney Before Speaking to Insurance

Dog owners and their insurers may try to minimize your injuries or shift blame. Before accepting a settlement offer or giving a statement to insurance adjusters, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Who Can Be Held Liable

Dog Owner Under Strict Liability

California’s strict liability law (Civil Code § 3342) holds dog owners directly responsible for injuries caused by their dogs—regardless of whether the dog has shown previous signs of aggression. If the dog bites someone in a public place or on private property where the victim had a lawful right to be, the owner is automatically liable for the harm caused.

Property Owner or Landlord

In certain circumstances, landlords or property managers may also be held liable—especially if they knew the dog was dangerous and failed to take reasonable steps to protect others. This is common in apartment complexes or rental properties in North Hollywood where a landlord permitted a known aggressive dog to stay on the premises.

Business Owners or Pet Service Providers

If the bite occurred at a business, such as a pet grooming service, dog daycare, or a veterinary clinic, and the business or its employees failed to restrain or supervise the dog properly, they could be found negligent and therefore liable. This is particularly relevant if the dog was under their care at the time of the attack.

Potential for Third-Party Claims (e.g., Negligent Caregivers)

There are situations where someone other than the owner was in control of the dog when the bite occurred—like a dog walker, pet sitter, or friend watching the dog. If these individuals were careless or failed to control the animal, they may share legal responsibility under negligence claims.

At Tim Wright Law, we thoroughly assess the facts of your case to identify every party who may have contributed to the incident. Holding the right people accountable helps maximize your chances of recovering the full financial support you need after a dog bite injury.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Medical Bills (ER, Surgery, Physical Therapy)

Medical care after a dog bite can be extensive. We pursue compensation for:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospitalization or outpatient surgery
  • Wound care and antibiotics
  • Physical or occupational therapy
  • Follow-up doctor appointments
  • Medication and medical equipment

Our team works with your providers to document all current and anticipated future care needs tied to the injury.

Pain and Suffering

Dog bites can cause intense physical pain—often lasting well beyond the initial injury. You may be entitled to damages for:

  • Daily discomfort
  • Limited mobility or use of a limb
  • Scarring that impacts your appearance or quality of life

Psychological Trauma or Counseling

Dog attacks can leave victims with deep emotional scars, especially when the victim is a child. Psychological impacts may include:

  • Anxiety or depression
  • Fear of dogs or outdoor activity
  • Nightmares or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Lost Income or Reduced Earning Capacity

If the injury caused you to miss work or impacted your ability to return to your previous job, you may be eligible for:

  • Lost wages for time missed
  • Loss of future earnings if your ability to work is permanently reduced
  • Lost job benefits or bonuses

We’ll calculate your wage loss using pay stubs, tax returns, and employment records.

Long-Term Care or Reconstructive Procedures

Severe bites often result in disfigurement, nerve damage, or mobility limitations. In these cases, you may require:

  • Plastic or reconstructive surgery
  • Skin grafts
  • Long-term physical therapy
  • In-home care or assistive devices

These costs can add up significantly, and we ensure they are fully accounted for in your settlement demand.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in North Hollywood, don’t wait to understand your legal rights. Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, long-term emotional distress, and unexpected expenses—but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

At Tim Wright Law, we offer trusted, compassionate legal representation for dog bite victims throughout Los Angeles County. We take your case seriously and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve, handling everything from insurance negotiations to litigation when necessary.

No fees unless we win—you can speak with an experienced attorney risk-free.

Contact Us Today:

📍 Burbank Office: (323) 379-9995
📍 Van Nuys Office: (818) 428-1080
📧 Email: firm@timwrightlaw.com
🌐 Website: www.timwrightlaw.com

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I am very satisfied and thankful with Attorney Tim Wright and his whole team for taking care and handling my fathers personal injuries case. Thank you all very much your staff is amazing, very helpful.
Abraham Ortega
The Law Offices of Tim D. Wright were awesome. They were professional, they kept an open communication with me through out the process.  Big shout out to Sergio and Mercedes for being very helpful with my settlement.
Frank Medina

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