California has many laws governing dog ownership, responsibilities, control and dog bites including “strict liability” for the owner of any dog who causes injuries in an attack. Did you there are additional Orange County dog bite ordinances in addition to our state dog ownership and control laws?
Most people are not aware that individual California counties such as Orange County have established additional legal responsibilities and laws for pet owners to abide by. For example, pursuant to Orange County Codified Ordinance 4-1-45, dogs on public property must be restrained by a chain or leash that is to not exceed 6 feet in length. If a person is found to be in violation of such a regulation and their dog injures someone they would be found in negligence “per se.” Legally, this simply means you are automatically and without defense liable for any injuries caused by your dog if they are off leash, or attached to a leash or chain more than 6 feet long.
Another lesser known ordinance is Orange County Codified Ordinance 4-1-46 which prohibits a dog (except a guide or service dog) to be on public school property, certain county parks, or any public beach (excluding dog beaches). To do so, would be a violation of codified ordinances, and also be negligence “per se” in violation of these ordinances. There are many other specific laws and ordinances governing the responsibilities of a pet owner.
Generally speaking, California law and Orange County dog bite ordinances the owner of a dog is financially responsible for all medical costs and associated damages from dog bite injuries and any resulting scarring. Damages may include your past, present and future related medical bills, plastic surgery and just compensation for having to endure your injury and recovery. The primary source of recovery is the homeowners or renters insurance of the pet owner.
If you, a child or someone you know has been bitten by a dog it is essential to speak to an experienced attorney to discuss the laws and ordinances concerning dogs, and to discuss your legal options. We invite you to review the strong recommendations of former clients and the legal industry and contact us or call to speak with Rivers M personally for a freeconsultation at (949)305-1400.
There is no cost to you out of pocket for our representation as we work on a contingency fee basis.
