Dog Bite Claims and the Statute of Limitations in California

There are several important factors that may impact a dog bite claim in California, including: Provocation – If the victim somehow provoked or aggravated the dog prior to the bite, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. However, the provocation must be intentional and extreme to absolve the owner. Merely startling or annoying the dog would not be considered legally sufficient provocation. Multiple Responsible Parties – Many dog bite cases involve shared liability. For example, a dog may bite someone in a veterinary clinic or grooming facility. The business may share liability along with the owner if the incident resulted from negligent supervision or dangerous conditions on the premises.

Municipal Liability – Cities and counties may share liability if the bite occurred due to failure to enforce animal control laws and leash ordinances. However, strict requirements apply to establish municipal liability. Insurance Coverage – Homeowners insurance and renters insurance generally cover dog bite claims, up to the limit of the policy. But coverage can be denied if the policy has a breed-specific exclusion or the dog has a history of aggression. Settlements vs. Lawsuits – Most dog bite claims settle through negotiations before a lawsuit is ever filed. However, sometimes a lawsuit becomes necessary if the owner contests liability or offers an unreasonably low settlement.