Top Rated Bakersfield Dog Bite Attorneys
Bakersfield Dog Bite Lawyer
Find out why we are one of the best dog bite law firms in Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield Dog Bite Attorney
Suffering from a dog bite can be a difficult, painful, and very hard experience. Severe injuries and infection can lead to traumatizing implications for you or your loved one’s life.
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite or mauling due to someone’s negligence, then our Top Rated Bakersfield dog bite lawyers are here to help you 24/7.
We have successfully won countless numbers of personal injury cases related to a dog attack, mauling, or bite. Our dog bite law firm has recovered over half a billion dollars in damages due to injury through personal injury lawsuits and settlements with insurance companies.
We have defended animal attack victims for 30+ years; Goldberg & Loren knows what you are going through. You are not alone in this, and we will fight for your right to the compensation you deserve.
We are open now. Visit us locally at our law office located at 1701 Westwind Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93301, or call (661) 669-8224 and book a free consultation with our Bakersfield dog bite attorneys.
In Bakersfield, around 36 US Postal service workers were attacked by dogs in past 5 years. [1]
Goldberg & Loren Dog Bite Lawyers
Fight for Maximum Compensation!
Samuel Pope has unparalleled experience in dog bite injury claims. His understanding of personal injury law is unequaled. Book your free consultation with Sam or another qualified dog attack lawyer today to go over the options for your dog bite injury case.
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Our Verdicts and Settlements
Settlement
A 9-year-old boy required 87 stitches and permanent facial scarring after being attacked by an off-leash Husky-mix.
May 2025
Settlement
A jogger was mauled by two loose Pit Bulls that had previously bitten a neighbor.
August 2025
Settlement
A postal carrier was bitten multiple times on the leg by a German Shepherd that escaped through a broken gate.
November 2025
Important Dog Bite Laws in California
Dog bite liability is regulated by California personal injury law, and specifically within California Assembly Bill 793, which was passed.
The most important dog bite laws in Bakersfield are as follows:
Dangerous and Vicious Dog Classification: Dogs are classified as “potentially dangerous” or “vicious” based on their history of attacks. If there is a history of such attacks, then dog owners are legally obliged to provide such records. California Food & Agriculture Code, Division 14, Chapter 9
Identification & Medical History: Dog owners are legally obligated to provide the history and identification information of their dog. They must comply with this law within 48 hours after a dog bite incident. California Penal Code § 398
Strict Liability Rule: Dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog’s attack. This applies to dogs even without a history of previous attacks, or whether the dog owner was aware of the aggression. California Civil Code § 3342
Strict Liability Exception: Dog owners’ liability may be negated or lessened if the victim was trespassing on the property with ill intention or provoking the dog.
Kern County Dog Bite Laws
Besides California state strict liability laws surrounding dogs , there are a number of ordinances in Kern County Ordinance Code Title 7 for dog owners.
These include:
Reporting: Dog owners and anyone providing medical treatment to dog bite victims are required to report the incident to Kern County Animal Services. The director of the department will evaluate the situation to determine whether the animal needs to be quarantined or undergo specific regulations.
Quarantine: Dogs that have bitten a person, particularly if they are not vaccinated against rabies, may be placed under quarantine for observation, either at a county shelter or at the owner’s residence.
Leash & Restraint: It is illegal for dog owners to let their pets wander freely without a leash or restraint on public land or private property unless they have the homeowner’s consent. Dogs must always be kept on a leash or confined when in public areas.
Dangerous Dog Declaration: The director of animal services can label a dog as “dangerous” if there is proof indicating it presents a threat due to biting, attacking, or exhibiting aggressive behavior. Owners of such dogs are required to adhere to strict control measures or risk facing penalties.
Violations: Non-compliance with county mandates concerning dangerous animals can lead to misdemeanor charges.
Our Kern County personal injury attorneys are here in your time of need. We know you have many questions surrounding your injuries, and your rights. Call us at (661) 669-8224 for a free dog bite consultation.
Recoverable Damages for Dog Bite Victims in California
A dog bite may entitle you to recover various types of compensation. This depends on the impact of the injury on your life. For instance, economic factors like medical treatment, lost wages, and therapy costs are considered. Meanwhile, non-economic aspects like mental anguish are also taken into account.
Therefore, you may be entitled to recover the following compensation types:
Economic Damages:
- Current, past, and future medical expenses
- Cost of special education or needs, if a child was injured
- Lost wages or inability to work
- Out-of-pocket costs
Non-Economic Damages:
- Disfigurement or disability
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Physical scarring, impairment, or limitations
- Quality of life
Goldberg & Loren will fight for maximum compensation on your case.
Call us at (661) 669-8224 to start your pursuit of justice today!
Who Is Liable For Your Dog Bite Case in California?
In California, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries their dogs inflict on others through bites, as outlined in California Civil Code Section 3342.
This strict liability means victims are not required to prove the owner’s negligence or awareness of the dog’s aggression; the owner is automatically held accountable if:
- The bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
- The victim did not trespass on the property or provoke the dog.
Strict Liability: The dog owner is responsible for the bite regardless of whether the dog had bitten anyone previously or if the owner was aware of any aggression in the dog.
Exceptions: Typically, owners are not held liable if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, engaged in professional duties related to dogs (such as veterinarians), or if the dog was serving in a law enforcement capacity.
California does not follow the “One-bite” rule as other states due.
In 2020, around 89% of police dog attacks were against black or Latin individuals. [2]
Determining the party liable for your dog bite case is one of the first key steps. Our legal team will thoroughly analyze the evidence, establish the responsible party’s fault, and determine the party liable in your case. Call us at (661) 669-8224.
How Do We Prove Negligence In A Dog Bite Case?
Proving negligence in a dog bite case requires showing the duty of care and how that duty was breached. This is established via proof of negligence, such as medical records, accident reports from the police or animal control, witness statements, and photos/videos of the accident scene.
Once the necessary evidence is at hand, here is how our Bakersfield dog bite attorneys prove negligence:
Duty of Care: We must establish the dog owner’s duty and show that they are legally required to ensure proper care of the dog. These duties include putting dogs on a leash, ensuring they are well-trained, and wearing a muzzle around other people.
Breach of Duty: We will show that the owner/caretaker of the dog failed, and a breach of duty occurred. Due to the negligence, the dog attack happened. Therefore, we will show that the dog bite incident would not have occurred if the responsible party had ensured the standards of care expected from them.
Causation: This requires us to link the injuries with the negligence of the liable party. We demonstrate this link via police or animal control reports and your medical records. Thus, showing that you suffered injuries because of the negligence of the liable party.
Damages: We will demonstrate that you suffered injuries and damages due to the incident. This resulted in economic and non-economic losses for you, which entitle you to compensation, we will then contact the insurance companies as part of the claims process which states the facts of the case and make a demand for damages.
When it comes to dog attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common as is cynophobia and zoophobia. We not only fight for property damage, and bodily injury but psychological injury in your dog bite claim.
Table of Contents
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Bakersfield Dog Bite Attorney
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Our Verdicts and Settlements
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Important Dog Bite Laws in California
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Kern County Dog Bite Laws
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Recoverable Damages for Dog Bite Victims in California
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Who Is Liable For Your Dog Bite Case in California?
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How Do We Prove Negligence In A Dog Bite Case?
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What To Do After a Dog Bite Incident in Bakersfield
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Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Injuries in California
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Common Consequences of Dog Bite Incidents
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Common Causes of Dog Bite Incidents in Bakersfield
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What Type of Injuries Are Caused By Dog Attacks?
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How Our Bakersfield Dog Bite Lawyers Will Help You
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FAQs
Bakersfield Practice Areas
What To Do After a Dog Bite Incident in Bakersfield
Getting attacked by a dog can devastate you and may leave you in a state of shock. However, you must focus on getting medical attention and begin documenting your case right away to seek justice and compensation.
Here is what you should do:
- Immediate Medical Attention: You should seek immediate medical attention. Dog bites can prove infectious and may cause various other health complications, aside from the physical wounds. Seek thorough medical treatment and follow up on the doctor’s orders.
- Report the Incident: Report the dog bite incident to your local animal control and the police. You can call Bakersfield Animal Control at 661-326-3436, or call 911 and report to the local police. This is important if the dog was a stray or lost.
- Talk to The Dog’s Owner: Find the dog’s owner and ask them for the dog’s medical history and records. They are legally required to provide you with this information. Moreover, finding the dog owner is also important for legal matters.
- Document the Incident: Document the dog bite injuries and begin gathering key evidence. This includes photos and videos of the accident, witness testimonies, medical records, and accident reports.
- Consult Our Dog Bite Attorney: Consult our Bakersfield dog bite legal team as soon as you can. We will handle the legal intricacies of the case for you and help you through this difficult time. We will fight for compensation and justice for you.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Injuries in California
The Statute of Limitations is a time limit to file a claim after an injury or incident. The time begins from the day of the accident or discovery of injury. This gives you two years from the day of your bite incident or injury to file a legal claim in California. CCP 335.1.
In some cases, dog bite incidents can be fatal. If a fatality occurs, then the family of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. In such instances, the time limit to file a legal claim is two years from the day of the person’s death. CCP 377.60
Common Consequences of Dog Bite Incidents
Attack incidents can lead to varying types of injuries, but that is not the only consequence of a dog attack. Such incidents can result in serious infections, aggravation of existing conditions, rabies, and severe mental trauma.
The most common consequences of such incidents include the following:
- Anxiety and fear disorders
- Decreased social interactions
- Employment difficulties or loss
- Financial burdens from medical costs
- Post-traumatic stress symptoms
- Reduced physical activity levels
- Social stigma or isolation
- Sleep disturbances and nightmares
- Restrictions on daily activities
Aside from this, the disfigurement and scarring can also lead to mental trauma and physical challenges. If you or a loved one has suffered like this, you are entitled to take legal action, and our dog bite lawyers are here to help you.
Common Causes of Dog Bite Incidents in Bakersfield
Dog bite incidents are a result of mishandling, mismanagement, and general human negligence. Problems with controlling the dog or training them through aggressive behavior are common causes behind such incidents.
This brings us to the most common causes of dog bite incidents, which are as follows:
Fear: One of the most common reasons that dogs attack other people or animals is due to fear. When dogs feel threatened, cornered, or scared, they can bite to try to fight their way out of such situations. This is why provoking or scaring a dog is a bad idea.
Maternal Instincts: Female dogs are particularly protective when they are nursing puppies. If they perceive someone as a threat to their young, they may attack or try to fend off that person. This is common in child injury claims, where children are enticed by puppies and try to go near them.
Pain or Sickness: Dogs that are injured or ill can bite when they are touched. Their defense mechanism kicks in when they feel touched or threatened, especially when they are touched in areas where they feel pain.
Playing: Dogs are playful, and they can unintentionally bite others when playing. This is particularly common in dogs that are not trained, or those who were rescued from the streets, or neglectful conditions.
Possessiveness or Territorial Behavior: Dogs are protective and territorial. Mail carriers are often attacked as they enter property, and a dog may react to that. If they feel threatened regarding toys, food, or their owners, they may attack the person they feel threatened by. It is common for a dog bite victim to have had an altercation with the dog owner.
Startlement or Provocation: When dogs are intentionally startled or provoked, they can attack. This is common in cases where rough handling by the caretakers or children occurs.
Owners Behavior and Training: It’s sad, but the truth is some owners mistreat their dogs, especially Pitbull’s and fighting dogs. The abuse them to get them angry, and for control.
The specific cause of your dog bite incident can help determine the party liable for your case. Our Kern County dog bite attorneys will thoroughly analyze your case and help you take legal action against the party responsible.
Call us now at (661) 669-8224 for a free consultation.
What Type of Injuries Are Caused By Dog Attacks?
Dog attacks can lead to severe injuries and result in deep wounds. Depending on the size and breed of the dog, these injuries can even prove to be fatal or result in severe disfigurement or scarring. Moreover, the nature and severity of your injuries determine the compensation you may be entitled to.
That being said, the most common types of injuries caused by dog attacks are as follows:
- Amputations
- Abrasions or Avulsions
- Bruising
- Crush injuries
- Death
- Emotional Trauma
- Fractures
- Knee injuries
- Lacerations
- Nerve damage
- PTSD injury
- Soft tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Suffering from animal attack injuries can bring along many challenges; aside from the physical pain and injury, there will be extended medical care and possible psychological issues. Being attacked may make you eligible to pursue compensation, and our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys will help you fight for it.
How Our Bakersfield Dog Bite Lawyers Will Help You
We know the difficulties you must be facing in the wake of a dog bite incident. It can be painful and turn your life upside down. However, you are not alone, as our local Bakersfield dog bite attorneys are here for you, and we will fight through this together.
From online appointments to receiving compensation, here is what we will do for you:
- Analyze your case and review the documents you have
- Complete investigation of your incident to establish facts
- Communicate with animal control and police to seek their reports of the incident
- Gather your medical records and history to prove your injuries
- Gather the vaccination records and incident history of the dog/dog’s owner
- Negotiate for a fair settlement for your medical expenses and other financial losses
- Take the case to court if settlement negotiations fall through
Goldberg & Loren is here for you in your time of great need. Our consultations are free, and we work on a contingency fee basis. So if we decide you have a case, there is no fee unless we win. Call us today at (661) 669-8224 for a free consultation on your injuries.
Goldberg & Loren
1701 Westwind Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 669-8224
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Take clear photos of the dog bite injury and gather medical reports. Begin documenting the treatment you receive, and keep track of the expenses, recovery, and healing process. If you can, take pictures or videos of the dog involved in the accident. If available, gather CCTV or any surveillance footage of the incident.
An experienced dog bite attorney can investigate your claim and gather the evidence necessary to back up your claim. They can enlist the help of investigators, local police, interview witnesses, review medical records, and surveillance footage to establish facts about your case.
They will investigate your case thoroughly and review the evidence you have. They will also interview witnesses to establish the basis of your claim. After that, they will notify the dog owner/liable party of your intention to sue and pursue legal action.
This depends on the complexity of your case and if the dog owner/liable party is willing to negotiate. If your case is resolved during settlement negotiations, then it will be resolved within the first six months. If your case goes to trial, then it can easily last upward of a year.
Reporting the incident to animal control or police will create an official report. They will also investigate your incident and the dog’s owner regarding previous offenses. This report can be helpful in proving your claim.
Sources:
[1] U.S. Postal Service Releases Dog Attack National Rankings – California newsroom – About.usps.com. (n.d.). https://about.usps.com/newsroom/local-releases/ca/2025/0530ma-usps-releases-dog-attack-national-rankings-bakersfield.htm
[2] Va, S. (2024, February 1). NEW REPORT: Weaponizing Dogs – The brutal and outdated practice of police attack dogs – ACLU California Action. ACLU California Action. https://aclucalaction.org/2024/01/new-report-weaponizing-dogs-the-brutal-and-outdated-practice-of-police-attack-dogs/
Have you been bitten by a dog in Bakersfield? We want to hear from you. We'll work to get you the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.
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