Dog Bites and Children in Los Angeles: Special Legal Protections

Children are disproportionately victims of dog bites. Families in Los Angeles have strong legal protections for injured children.

If you were injured in Los Angeles, the steps below can help protect your claim.

Children account for the majority of dog bite victims. Their smaller size, unpredictable behavior, and inability to assess danger make them particularly vulnerable.

Why Children Are Targeted
Children often approach dogs without recognizing warning signs. Their faces are at dog mouth level, leading to more facial injuries. Excited or loud behavior can trigger dog aggression.

Strict Liability Applies
California’s strict liability dog bite law fully protects children. Even if a child inadvertently provoked the dog through innocent play, the owner is typically still liable.

The Provocation Defense
Dog owners sometimes claim the child provoked the attack. However, courts recognize children lack adult judgment. Innocent childhood behavior rarely qualifies as legal provocation.

Parental Supervision
Dog owners may argue parents were negligent in supervising the child. This is usually irrelevant under strict liability, though it can affect comparative fault in non-bite cases.

Facial Injuries
Children commonly suffer facial bites due to their height. These injuries often require reconstructive surgery, leave permanent scars, and cause significant psychological trauma.

Long-Term Impact
Childhood dog bite injuries affect victims throughout their lives. Permanent scarring impacts self-esteem during crucial developmental years. Psychological trauma can persist into adulthood.

Higher Damage Awards
Juries are particularly sympathetic to injured children. The lifelong impact of childhood injuries often results in higher compensation than similar adult injuries.

Statute of Limitations
For children, the statute of limitations doesn’t begin until they turn 18. This gives families time to understand the full extent of injuries before filing suit.

Insurance Coverage
Most dog bite claims are covered by homeowners insurance. This means compensation is available regardless of the dog owner’s personal finances.

Protecting Your Child
If your child was bitten, seek immediate medical and psychological treatment. Document all injuries with photographs. Consult an experienced attorney to ensure your child receives full compensation for lifelong impact.

Children deserve special protection under the law. Make sure your child’s claim receives the serious attention and maximum compensation it deserves.