Dog bites happen more often in Pasadena than many expect, and the consequences can be life-changing. A sudden attack may leave someone with painful wounds, unexpected hospital bills, and missed time from work that affects the whole family. In moments like these, having a Pasadena dog bite lawyer to guide you makes a real difference.
At Glotzer & Leib, we stand beside injured residents, listen to their worries, and provide steady support from start to finish. Our goal is to ensure no one feels alone when facing the aftermath of a serious bite.
California follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. This law makes owners responsible whenever their dog bites someone, even if it is the first time the animal has been aggressive. The rule applies in public spaces and on private property, as long as the victim had a right to be there. For Pasadena residents, this means the law looks at the fact that the bite happened, not the dog’s past behavior.
These protections encourage responsible ownership and give victims a straightforward way to pursue compensation. In many other states, a so-called “one bite rule” applies, which requires showing the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. California’s approach is different, giving victims stronger rights from the first incident and ensuring owners remain accountable for their animals at all times.
Dog bites often lead to much more than surface cuts. Beyond the visible wounds, they can cause lasting physical and emotional problems that require ongoing attention. Victims may require:
These injuries can follow victims long after the initial incident. Children may become fearful of dogs, while adults might struggle with pain or mobility that interferes with their work. In the worst cases, victims face multiple surgeries or months of rehabilitation. The physical and emotional toll and financial strain highlight why seeking compensation is so important. It allows families to focus on recovery while covering the cost of treatment and therapy.
Under California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is liable for injuries if their dog bites someone in a public place or when the victim was lawfully on private property. This rule applies even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before.
Victims do not have to prove that the dog was dangerous in the past, since the law makes owners directly responsible. This provides strong protection for those hurt by a bite.
The dog’s owner must often cover the damages, including medical treatment, lost wages, and other costs. In some instances, others may also be held accountable. For example, a landlord who knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous but failed to act could share responsibility.
This gives victims more than one potential avenue for financial recovery. Coverage may include immediate medical bills, therapy, medications, and future care.
Even though strict liability applies, negligence can still play a role in many cases. Negligence may involve ignoring leash laws, failing to control the dog publicly, or overlooking known risks. Evidence like photographs, medical records, animal control reports, and witness statements can all help demonstrate negligence.
Building this type of documentation strengthens victims’ positions during negotiations and increases the likelihood of a fair settlement.
The steps taken after a dog bite can have a significant impact later. Medical attention should always come first for safety and to document the injury. According to the Los Angeles County Public Health Department, all animal bites to people, except those caused by rodents or rabbits, must be reported immediately.
Other necessary steps include:
These simple steps can create robust evidence if a claim is filed. Clear documentation makes it easier to prove what happened and supports the case throughout the legal process.
In Pasadena, victims generally have two years from the bite date to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long may mean losing the chance to recover compensation. Acting quickly helps preserve critical evidence and allows witnesses to share their accounts while fresh memories remain.
With an attorney handling deadlines and requirements, victims can concentrate on their recovery with confidence that the case is being handled.
A dog bite can instantly change daily life, affecting work, family, and future plans. At Glotzer & Leib, we work closely with clients to pursue compensation for medical care, lost income, and the emotional impact of the attack.
Every client’s story is different, so we listen and shape a legal approach that fits their needs. Call 747-241-8288 today, and let our team guide you toward the justice and financial security you deserve.
“Mr. Glotzer represented me after I was involved in a car accident. I was badly injured,but the insurance company refused to offer me a reasonable settlement. I decided to find an attorney and decided to hire Josh.
His law firm did a great job on my case. They were very responsive to all my questions and obtained a great resolution for me. I received way more money than was originally offered. I would recommend their firm to friends and family.”
“Mr. Josh Glotzer is a great attorney. Over the last 15 years he has helped me on a number of cases with professionalism, and more importantly a positive outcome in my favor. I have referred him to a number of friends and colleagues, all of which have been equally as happy with his legal representation. I trust him and confident in legal ability. I highly recommend his law firm.”
“Don’t try to deal with insurance companies on your own. They strung me along for almost two years before I gave the case to Glotzer & Leib. Josh and his team quickly obtained a settlement that netted me many times what the insurance company was offering. Thank You!”
“My wife was in a car accident last year and Josh did an amazing job representing her. It’s very refreshing to see someone in his profession that actually cares and puts his clients first. He’s the best in the business and I feel so fortunate that I was referred to him. Keep up the great work and thanks for everything you did for my family!”
“I was in a rear end car accident last year and hired Mr. Glotzer’s office. It wasn’t a big case but their office helped me with my property damage claim and did a good job resolving the injury portion of the case as well.”
