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San Diego Dog Bite Injury Lawyers

Do You Need a San Diego Dog Bite Attorney?

Dog attacks are terrifying and they leave lasting physical and emotional scars. There are a lot of dog owners in San Diego, increasing the odds that you or a loved one could suffer an attack. Sadly, the most frequent victims of these events are children.

Dog bite victims face painful injuries, trauma, scarring, medical expenses, and time away from work. Eugene Bruno & Associates knows how to pursue justice and fair compensation for your injuries.

Over 800,000 people receive medical treatment for dog bites every year. Dog bite claims involve complicated legal issues, and insurance companies could attempt to take advantage of you when you don’t have strong legal representation. Insurance agents are trained to try to save money by denying claims and downplaying the serious nature of your injuries.

An experienced San Diego dog bite attorney like Eugene Bruno can:

  • Explain your legal rights clearly
  • Collect medical records and witness statements
  • Work with medical and financial experts to prove damages
  • Advocate for maximum compensation
  • Conduct negotiations with insurers
  • Take your case to trial, if necessary

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we understand how devastating a dog attack can be. Our team will take on the legal battle so you can focus on healing.

Why Choose Us Over Other Dog Bite Lawyers in San Diego?

Finding the right lawyer can make a huge difference. Here’s why Eugene Bruno & Associates stands out:

  • Free consultation
  • 99.7% success rate in personal injury cases
  • 85+ years of combined experience fighting for injury victims
  • Listed in The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
  • “A” rating from the Better Business Bureau
  • Named as one of the Best Personal Injury Lawyers in San Diego by Expertise.com
  • Known for a hands-on, compassionate approach with every client

Get Legal Help Today

If you’ve been injured by a dog in San Diego, don’t wait. Call Eugene Bruno & Associates today at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) for a free consultation.

You pay nothing unless we recover compensation in your case.

What Types of Compensation Can I Recover for a Dog Bite?

You may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These types of compensation are designed to cover not only your out-of-pocket expenses but also the long-term physical, emotional, and financial impact of the attack.

Compensation may include:

  • Medical Expenses – From emergency room visits and stitches to surgery, medication, and ongoing rehabilitation. Future medical costs, such as scar revision surgery or psychological counseling, may also be covered.
  • Lost Income and Reduced Earning Capacity – If your injuries keep you from working temporarily or permanently affect your ability to earn a living, you may recover for lost wages and diminished earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering – Dog bites are often extremely painful and can lead to long-term complications. The law allows victims to seek damages for the physical pain they’ve endured.
  • Scarring or Disfigurement – Permanent scars or visible injuries can impact not only your appearance but also your self-esteem and quality of life.
  • Emotional Trauma – Many victims develop anxiety, PTSD, or a lasting fear of dogs after an attack. These psychological effects are just as real as physical injuries.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If your injuries limit your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed, you may be compensated for that loss.

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we take the time to fully understand how the attack has affected every part of your life. Then we make sure your claim reflects the true scope of your damages.

California Dog Bite Laws

California has some of the strongest laws in the country when it comes to protecting dog bite victims. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries their pets cause. The victim does not have to prove that the owner was negligent or that the dog had a history of aggression.

This law applies as long as the victim was bitten:

  • In a public place, or
  • Lawfully on private property, including the dog owner’s property

California doesn’t give dog owners a free pass if it’s the first time their dog has bitten someone. The owner is legally responsible for the resulting harm.

There are a few exceptions. For example, dog bite laws typically do not apply to individuals trespassing on private property or provoking the dog. Additionally, certain professionals, such as veterinarians or dog groomers, may face different legal standards because of their occupational risks.

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we know how to interpret these laws and apply them to your unique situation. If you’ve been bitten in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, we can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t Wait: The Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites in California

In California, dog bite victims generally have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose your right to recover damages.

Gathering evidence, medical records, and witness testimony takes time. That’s why it’s so important to consult with a San Diego dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. Acting quickly ensures your rights are protected and gives your attorney the best chance to build a strong case.

Common Types of Injuries in Dog Bite Claims

While some bites may appear minor at first, even small wounds can lead to serious complications. Victims often face not only immediate pain but also long-term physical and emotional consequences.

Common injuries in dog bite cases include:

  • Puncture Wounds – Deep bites can damage tissue and carry a high risk of infection.
  • Lacerations and Torn Skin – Severe tearing often requires stitches or reconstructive surgery.
  • Nerve Damage – Bites to the face, arms, or legs can damage nerves, leading to long-term numbness or loss of function.
  • Broken Bones – Victims may suffer fractures from the bite itself or from being knocked down during the attack.
  • Scarring and Disfigurement – Permanent marks, particularly on the face, can affect both appearance and emotional well-being.
  • Infections – Diseases like rabies, tetanus, and serious bacterial infections may result from untreated or poorly treated wounds.
  • Psychological Trauma – Victims, especially children, often develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a lasting fear of dogs.

These injuries often require emergency medical treatment, ongoing care, and surgeries. For children, the effects can be even more devastating, as physical and emotional scars may last a lifetime.

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we understand the lasting impact of dog bite injuries and fight to ensure victims and their families receive full and fair compensation for all aspects of recovery.

Understanding Negligence in Dog Bite Cases

Strict liability applies only to bites. If a dog knocks someone down or causes injury without biting, the victim may still have a claim, but they would need to prove negligence instead of relying on strict liability.

Negligence can also play a role in dog bite claims. By establishing negligence, we can strengthen your case and potentially expand the scope of compensation available.

A dog owner may be considered negligent if they:

  • Failed to properly leash or restrain their dog
  • Ignored local leash laws or ordinances
  • Allowed their dog to roam freely despite knowing it had aggressive tendencies
  • Failed to warn visitors or neighbors about a dangerous dog

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries in San Diego

Dog bites can leave more than just physical scars; they can lead to lasting emotional trauma, costly medical treatments, and time away from work. At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we understand how disruptive and painful these attacks can be. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to financial compensation to help you recover and move forward you’re your life.

Compensation in a dog bite claim can cover a range of losses, including:

  • Medical expenses, such as emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing rehabilitation
  • Lost wages if the injury kept you from working
  • Pain and suffering, which can account for both physical discomfort and emotional distress
  • Disfigurement or permanent scarring, especially if facial injuries are involved
  • Psychological harm, including anxiety, PTSD, or fear of animals

What to Do After a Dog Bite Occurs

A dog bite can be frightening and overwhelming, but the steps you take immediately afterward can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. If you or a loved one has been bitten, here’s what you should do:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away
    Even if the wound looks minor, dog bites carry a high risk of infection and may require stitches, rabies shots, or other treatment. Prompt medical care also creates important documentation of your injuries.
  2. Report the Incident
    Notify local animal control or law enforcement. An official report helps establish the facts of the attack and may prevent the dog from harming someone else.
  3. Gather Information
    If possible, obtain the dog owner’s name, contact details, and proof of vaccination. Take photographs of the injuries, the dog, and the location of the attack.
  4. Document Your Recovery
    Keep copies of medical bills, records, and receipts. Write down how the injuries are affecting your daily life, including time missed from work and emotional struggles.
  5. Contact an Attorney
    Before speaking with insurance companies, consult with an experienced San Diego dog bite attorney. At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we help victims of dog bites understand their rights, build strong claims, and pursue the full compensation they deserve.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

“Truly Awesome to Work With” – Jaclyn Osborne (5-Star Google Review)

Eugene Bruno & Associates are truly awesome to work with! The entire [staff] is exceptionally nice and approachable, making the legal process much less stressful. Their friendly and supportive nature […] makes the experience all-around positive. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking top-notch legal assistance!

“Amazing […] Highly Recommend” – Samir Qafiti (5-Star Google Review)

I cannot express enough how amazing [Eugene Bruno & Associates has] been through this entire stressful situation I have gone through. I highly recommend anybody […] to seek legal representation from this firm. Thank you!

Call Eugene Bruno & Associates Today

Dog bite cases can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Eugene Bruno & Associates will fight to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) for your free consultation.

Other Locations We Serve Near San Diego

Dog Bite FAQs

Who is responsible if I am bitten by a dog in San Diego?

Under California’s strict liability law, dog owners are generally responsible if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression.

Do I need to prove the dog’s owner knew the dog was dangerous?

No. California does not require proof that the dog owner knew about the dog’s aggressive behavior.

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

Seek medical treatment right away, report the incident to local animal control, gather contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses, and take photos of your injuries.

Can I recover compensation if I was bitten while visiting someone’s property?

Yes. If you were lawfully on the property, the dog’s owner may still be liable for your injuries.

What types of damages can I recover after a dog bite in California?

You may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and scarring or disfigurement.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in California?

You generally have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim?

Finding the right lawyer can make a big difference. The experienced San Diego dog bite lawyers at Eugene Bruno & Associates know how to protect your rights and pursue full compensation.

Meet Our Attorney

Eugene Bruno

Licensed in California: 171740

Attorney Eugene Bruno is the founding partner of Eugene Bruno & Associates and has dedicated his career to protecting the rights of injury victims. With over 20 years of experience, he has earned recognition as one of San Diego’s top personal injury attorneys. Mr. Bruno combines deep legal knowledge with a hands-on approach, ensuring that each client receives personalized attention. He believes that every client deserves to be treated with respect, and he takes pride in guiding them through every step of the legal process.

Speak With a San Diego Dog Bite Attorney

Choosing the right San Diego personal injury lawyer is an important first step in holding dog owners accountable and seeking full compensation for your injuries.

If you have been injured from a dog bite in San Diego, don’t delay. Call us today at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) for a free consultation and find out how a San Diego dog bite attorney at our firm can help you.

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