A dog bite can happen fast, but the impact lingers: painful injuries, medical appointments, and the sudden stress of figuring out what to do next. It’s not just physical—it’s a disruption to your life that no one sees coming.
Connecting with a dog bite lawyer in Burbank can help you understand what comes next—and take real steps toward healing and holding the right party accountable. That’s where Glotzer & Leib steps in—with the support, legal guidance, and care you need to move forward.
California enforces a strict liability approach when it comes to dog bites. That means the dog’s owner is responsible for injuries caused by their pet, even if the dog has never shown aggression. Under California Civil Code Section 3342 (commonly known as the dog bite statute), a person bitten in a public place or while lawfully on private property does not need to prove the owner was negligent to recover damages.
This statute applies throughout the state, including in Burbank, and removes many barriers found in states that follow the “one bite rule.” However, it’s important to note that strict liability applies only to bites, not to other injuries caused by a dog (such as being knocked over). Those cases may require proof of negligence.
In Los Angeles County, dog bite incidents must also be reported to the Department of Animal Care and Control. This public health measure supports community safety and helps track aggressive dogs.
Dog bites can occur almost anywhere, but specific locations carry a higher risk. Based on public health data and local incident trends, most dog bite injuries in Burbank and surrounding neighborhoods happen in:
Children are statistically more vulnerable due to their size and behavior, and bites often target the face or upper body.
Dog bite injuries range from minor to life-altering. Depending on the dog’s size, strength, and level of aggression, victims may suffer from:
Medical professionals emphasize that even seemingly minor bites should receive immediate care. Prompt cleaning, antibiotic use, and follow-up monitoring are essential after any dog-related wound.
After a dog bite, acting quickly can protect your well-being and your ability to hold the owner accountable. Here’s what we recommend:
Your choices after a bite matter—our team’s here to help you make the right ones.
While strict liability simplifies many cases, it doesn’t eliminate the need for a strong legal argument. We still must prove:
Dog owners may attempt to shift blame or argue that you ignored posted warnings or engaged in threatening behavior. We gather medical records, animal control reports, and witness statements to build a compelling claim. In some cases, expert testimony helps strengthen causation or disprove owner defenses.
Compensation for dog bite injuries in Burbank often includes both economic and non-economic damages. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be entitled to:
In severe cases—especially those involving children or facial injuries—settlements and verdicts may increase significantly. Our legal team works with medical and financial professionals to calculate a fair amount before entering negotiations.
You typically have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury claim under California’s statute of limitations. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to seek compensation. There are some exceptions, such as claims involving minors or government-owned dogs, but it’s best to act as soon as possible.
Dog bite cases may seem less complicated, but the reality is that proving liability isn’t always simple. Owners may deny responsibility, argue you provoked the dog, or question the extent of your injuries. That’s where we come in.
Our team knows how to gather the proper evidence, respond to legal defenses, and build a strong case. We’ve helped clients throughout California pursue claims after incidents in homes, parks, and public spaces, always intending to secure the outcome they deserve. You focus on healing; we’ll handle the rest.
You don’t have to manage medical bills, legal paperwork, and negotiations on your own. At Glotzer & Leib, we handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on recovery. Our Burbank office is conveniently located at 1023 N Hollywood Way, Suite 202, Burbank, CA 91505, and we’re proud to serve victims throughout the region. Call 747-241-8288 for a free consultation. There’s no fee unless we win your case.