Dog Bite
Attorney
in Citrus Heights

Dog Bites: Know Your Rights in Citrus Heights

Dog bites can be traumatic, painful, and costly. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Citrus Heights, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika, we specialize in personal injury cases, including dog bite claims, and we are here to help you navigate the legal process.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in California

California follows strict liability laws when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their pet, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Under California Civil Code § 3342, the victim does not need to prove negligence—only that:

1. The defendant owned the dog.
2. The bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
3. The victim suffered injuries as a result of the bite.

However, there are exceptions, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. An experienced attorney can assess your case and determine the best legal strategy.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

Dog attacks can lead to severe physical and emotional injuries, including:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections (rabies, tetanus, etc.)
• Nerve damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Medical treatment for dog bites can be expensive, involving emergency care, stitches, antibiotics, and sometimes even reconstructive surgery. If the attack was severe, you may also face lost wages due to time off work.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Citrus Heights

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even if the wound seems minor, infections can develop quickly.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner – Get the owner’s contact information and ask for proof of rabies vaccination.
3. Report the Incident – File a report with Sacramento County Animal Control (serving Citrus Heights) to document the attack.
4. Take Photos – Document your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog if possible.
5. Gather Witness Information – If anyone saw the attack, collect their names and statements.
6. Contact a Dog Bite Attorney – The Law Office of Brian P. Azemika can help you pursue compensation from the owner’s homeowner’s insurance or through a personal injury claim.

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?

In most cases, the dog's owner is responsible for injuries caused by their pet. However, other parties may also be liable, such as:

• Property owners if the attack occurred due to negligent security (e.g., a landlord who knew a dangerous dog was on the premises).
• Dog walkers or caretakers if they failed to control the animal.
• Employers if the dog was part of a business (e.g., a security dog).

The Law Office of Brian P. Azemika can investigate the circumstances of your case and determine all possible sources of compensation.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to:

✔ Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, medications)
✔ Lost wages (if you missed work due to recovery)
✔ Pain and suffering (physical and emotional distress)
✔ Scarring and disfigurement (if the injury caused permanent damage)
✔ Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence)

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, which is why having a skilled lawyer on your side is crucial.

Why Choose the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika?

At our firm, we understand how devastating a dog bite can be. Brian P. Azemika is dedicated to fighting for the rights of injury victims in Citrus Heights and throughout California. We offer:

• Free consultations – No upfront fees; we only get paid if you win.
• Aggressive representation – We negotiate with insurance companies and take cases to trial if necessary.
• Personalized attention – You’re not just a case number; we treat every client with compassion and respect.

Don’t Wait—Contact Us Today

California has a two-year statute of limitations for dog bite claims, meaning you must file within two years of the incident. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in Citrus Heights, call the Law Office of Brian P. Azemika today for a free case evaluation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.