Providing High-Quality Service And Practical Solutions

What evidence do you need to support your dog bite case?

On Behalf of | Jun 6, 2024 | Personal Injury

Dog bite cases are challenging for many reasons. While they often leave a physical and emotional toll on those involved, seeking justice in court isn’t always a straightforward process. To build a robust case, you need to highlight the incident’s severity and the owner’s negligence, and this requires several unique pieces of evidence.

Medical records and photographs

Medical records are paramount in dog bite cases, as they provide a detailed account of the injuries sustained and the treatments administered. These records should include emergency room reports, doctor’s notes, and any given prescriptions.

It’s important to take photographs immediately following the incident. These images are persuasive in court. You can strengthen your case by updating these photographs to show the healing process and any permanent scarring.

Witness statements and incident reports

Witness statements are invaluable because they give an objective account of the incident. Anyone who witnessed the attack, including neighbors and passersby, can give a statement. Courts can then use their testimonies to corroborate accounts.

Documentation of the dog’s history

A thorough investigation into the dog’s history can reveal prior aggressive behavior, which is vital to establishing owner liability. Animal control or veterinary records may also demonstrate a pattern of aggression.

Handling dog bites under California law

California law favors injured parties under the doctrine of strict liability. According to California Civil Code Section 3342, a dog owner is liable for damages, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of vicious tendencies.

Understanding these laws and your rights can lead to a favorable outcome in court and ensure you get the justice you deserve.