Dog Bite Accident Lawyers in San Diego Fighting For Justice

At Gershen Law, our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys are committed to battling injured victims all over San Diego County. With extensive experience in California’s strict liability laws for many years, we know how to build strong cases that demand full compensation. From the moment you call us, we move quickly to preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if needed, battle aggressively in court.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a dog bite injury, you don’t have to face it alone. We welcome you to call us today for a free consultation and allow our experienced staff to stand up for your rights.

Understanding California’s Dog Bite Laws

California offers some of the strongest protections in the country for dog bite victims. Unlike states that follow a “one bite rule,” California enforces strict liability. In other words, dog owners are responsible for injuries even if the dog had no prior history of aggression.

Under California Civil Code § 3342, a victim must only prove that the dog bite occurred while they were lawfully present in a public or private place. There is no need to show the owner’s negligence or prior knowledge of the dog’s behavior. As a result, injured victims have a much clearer path to recovery.

However, insurance companies often twist these laws to their advantage. They may argue that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing. That is why having skilled San Diego dog bite accident attorneys on your side makes all the difference.

At Gershen Law, we use every available legal tool to hold negligent dog owners accountable. We immediately investigate the facts, preserve critical evidence, and challenge any attempt to shift blame onto the victim. By knowing the law inside and out, we position our clients for maximum compensation.

For additional legal details, review the American Veterinary Medical Association’s guide to understanding dog bite risks and prevention.

Where Dog Attacks Frequently Occur in San Diego

San Diego’s outdoor lifestyle brings people and pets together daily. Unfortunately, it also increases the risk of unexpected dog bite incidents. Dog attacks often happen in well-known areas where families, joggers, and tourists gather. When owners fail to control their pets, serious injuries can follow.

Our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys have extensive experience investigating attacks across the city. By identifying where and how these incidents happen, we build strong claims that protect victims and hold negligent dog owners accountable.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park remains one of San Diego’s busiest public spaces. Families, joggers, and pet owners share its vast lawns and trails daily. Sadly, unleashed dogs or poorly restrained pets often cause injuries here.

Ocean Beach Dog Beach

Ocean Beach Dog Beach is a rare off-leash coastal destination, but it carries serious risks. Even with posted rules, dog owners sometimes fail to maintain control, leading to aggressive encounters.

Mission Trails Regional Park

The scenic trails of Mission Trails Regional Park attract hikers, families, and dog walkers. However, the open space and rugged terrain make it easy for dogs to behave unpredictably, sometimes resulting in attacks.

Liberty Station

Liberty Station’s waterfront paths and open areas create a lively environment for pets and owners alike. Unfortunately, dense foot traffic and off-leash activity can sometimes end in preventable dog bite injuries.

Residential Neighborhoods

Dog attacks are not limited to parks and public spaces. In neighborhoods like North Park, Hillcrest, and La Jolla, many incidents happen on sidewalks, apartment complexes, or during visits to short-term vacation rentals. Often, property owners fail to warn guests about dangerous dogs on the premises.

If you are injured, reporting the incident to San Diego Animal Services immediately can help preserve key evidence for your claim.

Why Dog Bite Injury Claims Are Frequently Undervalued

Insurance companies are rarely on the side of injury victims. Even when California law is clear, many insurers work aggressively to minimize dog bite claims. Without experienced legal representation, many victims receive far less compensation than they deserve.

Our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys know how these tactics work — and how to fight back at every turn.

Downplaying the Seriousness of Injuries

Insurance adjusters often treat dog bites like minor scrapes. They ignore the risk of infections, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. Even when victims need surgery or extensive wound care, insurers argue the injuries are “superficial” or “non-critical.”

By working closely with surgeons, infectious disease experts, and trauma specialists across San Diego, we document the full scope of every injury. This strategic approach helps prevent insurers from lowballing legitimate claims.

➡️ Learn more about the dangers of untreated dog bite wounds through Johns Hopkins Medicine’s infection prevention guide.

Misusing California’s Strict Liability Rules

Although California enforces strict liability for dog owners, insurers often try to shift blame onto the victim. They may argue you provoked the dog, trespassed, or ignored warnings. These strategies are designed to confuse victims and weaken claims.

At Gershen Law, we move quickly to gather critical evidence — including witness statements, surveillance footage, and animal control reports — to shut down these defenses.

➡️ For a detailed explanation of strict liability, see the State Bar of California’s consumer resources.

Ignoring Emotional and Psychological Damage

Dog bites cause more than just physical harm. Many victims suffer lasting psychological effects, including anxiety, nightmares, and fear of animals. However, insurance companies often ignore emotional trauma entirely when calculating settlement offers.

Our team works closely with licensed therapists and mental health professionals throughout San Diego. Together, we build strong claims for emotional distress and future psychological care.

Pressuring Victims to Settle Quickly

Many insurers pressure victims to accept a settlement fast. They know early offers usually fall far below the true value of the claim. Once a release is signed, victims lose the right to seek more compensation — even if new complications arise later.

We advise all dog bite victims to speak with our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys before talking to any insurance adjuster. By knowing your rights, you stand a much better chance of securing full and fair compensation.

Common Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks and Their Lasting Effects

Dog bite injuries are rarely minor. In many cases, victims face long recovery periods, emotional scars, and unexpected complications. These injuries often impact every part of life, from work to personal relationships.

At Gershen Law, our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys understand the true cost of a dog attack — and we fight to ensure no harm goes overlooked.

Deep Tissue Damage and Muscle Tears

Dog jaws are designed to grip and tear, not just puncture. As a result, victims often suffer deep tissue injuries involving muscles, tendons, and even ligaments. These injuries frequently require surgical intervention, physical therapy, and extensive wound care.

If untreated, deep bites can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. For more about proper wound treatment, visit Mayo Clinic’s dog bite care guide.

Long-Term Nerve Damage

When a dog’s teeth puncture nerves, the results can be devastating. Victims may experience numbness, tingling, or complete loss of function in affected areas like the hands, arms, or face.

Unfortunately, nerve injuries often require months — if not years — of rehabilitation. Some cases never fully heal, making early legal action critical.

Risk of Serious Infections

Dog mouths carry bacteria that can cause severe infections. Left untreated, bites can lead to dangerous conditions like MRSA, sepsis, or Capnocytophaga infections. In rare cases, untreated infections become life-threatening.

Emergency medical treatment is always recommended, even when wounds seem small.

Disfigurement and Facial Scarring

Bites to the face, neck, or hands often leave permanent scars. Many victims require reconstructive surgery, skin grafts, or cosmetic procedures to repair the damage.

For young victims especially, visible scars can create lasting psychological trauma, impacting self-esteem and quality of life.

Post-Traumatic Stress and Emotional Trauma

Not all injuries are physical. Many dog bite victims experience severe emotional reactions, including PTSD, anxiety disorders, and phobias. Children, in particular, are vulnerable to long-term psychological harm after an attack.

We work closely with mental health experts across San Diego to fully document emotional injuries and fight for appropriate compensation.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in San Diego

Taking fast action after a dog attack can protect both your health and your legal rights. The first few hours and days are critical. Quick decisions help preserve evidence, document injuries, and strengthen your case.

At Gershen Law, our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys guide victims through every step of the recovery process — starting from day one.

Get Medical Treatment Without Delay

Even if the wound looks minor, seek immediate medical care. Dog bites often cause deep tissue damage and carry a high risk of infection. Emergency rooms like UC San Diego Health are equipped to clean, suture, and properly assess bite wounds.

Prompt medical documentation also becomes vital evidence in your injury claim.

Report the Attack to Local Authorities

Always report a dog bite to San Diego Animal Services as soon as possible. Animal control officers will investigate the dog’s history, check vaccination records, and issue necessary citations.

This report serves as an official record of the incident, which can strongly support your injury claim.

Document the Scene and Your Injuries

Photos can make or break a case. Photograph the wound, torn clothing, the surrounding area, and if possible, the dog itself. Gather names and contact information for any witnesses on the scene.

If the bite occurred in a public space like Mission Bay Park, nearby surveillance footage may also help capture the attack.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters

Insurance representatives may contact you quickly. They often seem friendly but are trained to protect the company’s interests — not yours. Do not give a recorded statement or sign any documents without speaking to an attorney first.

Early mistakes can weaken your claim or reduce your settlement.

Contact a San Diego Dog Bite Accident Attorney

The sooner you involve an experienced attorney, the better your chances of securing full compensation. At Gershen Law, we act immediately to preserve evidence, investigate liability, and hold negligent dog owners accountable.

Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Dog Attack

Dog attacks can leave behind not just physical wounds, but also overwhelming financial and emotional burdens. Victims often face costly medical care, lost income, and long-term psychological effects. Without aggressive representation, many victims settle for far less than they deserve.

Our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys are committed to helping victims recover the full compensation they are entitled to under California law.

Medical Expenses and Ongoing Care

Dog bite injuries often require extensive medical treatment. Victims may need emergency care, hospitalization, plastic surgery, or ongoing rehabilitation. Costs quickly escalate, especially if infections or nerve damage develop.

We fight to recover all medical expenses, including future costs tied to long-term recovery.

➡️ To better understand the financial burden of serious injuries, review the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ (AAOS) guide on dog bite injuries.

Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity

Many dog bite victims miss work due to their injuries. Some face lasting impairments that limit their future job opportunities. Whether you lost a few days of income or suffered a permanent disability, you deserve compensation for lost earnings.

Our team works with financial experts to calculate your past, present, and future wage losses.

Pain and Suffering

Not every injury shows up on a medical bill. Pain, emotional distress, anxiety around animals, and reduced quality of life are all compensable damages in California. These “non-economic damages” often make up a significant portion of a dog bite settlement.

At Gershen Law, we work closely with medical and psychological professionals across San Diego to document these invisible but very real harms.

Scarring, Disfigurement, and Psychological Impact

Permanent scars, especially on visible areas like the face and hands, cause deep emotional wounds. Many victims require reconstructive surgeries, counseling, and ongoing therapy to cope with the trauma.

We ensure that future medical needs and psychological impacts are fully factored into every claim we file.

➡️ Learn more about how psychological injuries impact personal injury claims through Psychology Today’s trauma resources.

Real Stories of Dog Bite Incidents in San Diego

Dog attacks are not rare events in San Diego — they are devastating realities that leave victims and families shattered. Recent incidents show just how serious and tragic these attacks can be. At Gershen Law, our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys stand ready to help victims and their loved ones seek justice after these horrific events.

Deadly Dog Attack Leaves One Dead and Another Injured

In December 2024, a tragic dog attack rocked the San Diego community when three dogs fatally mauled their owner and seriously injured a bystander at a local park. According to CNN’s coverage, the incident involved large breed dogs that were reportedly out of control and unsupervised.

Sadly, these attacks highlight how even responsible pet owners and innocent bystanders can become victims without warning.

Three Dogs Attack Owner and Injure Bystander at San Diego Park

NBC News reported another horrifying event where three aggressive dogs killed their owner and injured a nearby individual during an incident at a San Diego park. The bystander, simply walking by, suffered serious injuries trying to intervene.

These types of brutal attacks show the urgent need for stronger leash laws, responsible pet ownership, and swift legal action when negligence occurs.

XL Bullies Identified in Deadly San Diego Dog Attack

Further reporting by the Los Angeles Times revealed that the dogs involved were believed to be XL Bullies, a breed gaining attention for its strength and potential for aggression. Officials noted that controlling such powerful dogs requires strict adherence to local safety ordinances — rules that, when ignored, often lead to catastrophic consequences.

How Gershen Law Can Help Dog Bite Victims

When tragedy strikes, victims and their families deserve more than sympathy — they deserve action. Our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys work tirelessly to:

• Investigate incidents thoroughly
• Hold negligent dog owners and handlers accountable
• Pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost income, emotional trauma, and wrongful death damages
• Advocate for safer community practices and stronger enforcement of animal control laws

Whether you suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one due to a preventable dog attack, Gershen Law is here to provide the experienced, compassionate legal support you need.

➡️ Contact our team today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can fight for you.

Why Choose Gershen Law for Your San Diego Dog Bite Case

When you are injured by a dog attack, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Experience, local knowledge, and relentless advocacy are critical to securing the full compensation you deserve.

At Gershen Law, our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys bring all of that — and more — to every case we handle.

Deep Understanding of California Dog Bite Laws

California’s strict liability rules offer strong protection for victims. However, navigating the legal system and dealing with aggressive insurance tactics can still be overwhelming. We leverage years of experience and a sharp understanding of state and local laws to build powerful cases that deliver results.

➡️ For more about California dog bite law protections, visit the California Legislative Information portal.

Aggressive Representation with Compassionate Care

We believe that fierce legal representation and compassionate client care go hand in hand. Every client’s story matters to us. That’s why we approach every case with urgency, empathy, and the unwavering goal of achieving justice.

From the moment you call, we treat your case like the priority it is.

Local Knowledge of San Diego Communities

San Diego’s unique parks, beaches, and neighborhoods each present different legal challenges. Our familiarity with local areas like Balboa Park, Ocean Beach, and Hillcrest helps us quickly gather evidence, locate witnesses, and challenge false claims made by insurance companies.

We know San Diego. We know how to win here.

No Upfront Costs – You Only Pay If We Win

Pursuing justice should not add financial stress to your recovery. At Gershen Law, we offer free consultations and work entirely on a contingency fee basis. You owe us nothing unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

After a dog attack, every decision matters — especially your choice of legal representation. Medical bills, emotional trauma, and lost income can quickly overwhelm victims and their families. But you do not have to face these challenges alone.

At Gershen Law, our San Diego dog bite accident attorneys are ready to stand by your side. We offer personalized, aggressive representation designed to get results. From investigating the attack to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing.

We understand that taking the first step can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer free, no-obligation consultations. You pay nothing unless we win your case. When you choose Gershen Law, you choose a team that treats your recovery like a top priority — and fights for the full compensation you deserve.

Dog bite injuries often involve more than just medical expenses. Emotional distress, permanent disfigurement, and the lasting fear of animals can impact every part of your life. Our attorneys know how to value these damages properly and push back against insurance companies that try to minimize your suffering.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack anywhere in San Diego County — from North Park to La Jolla to Mission Bay — don’t wait. Critical evidence can disappear quickly, and legal deadlines limit how long you have to act.

➡️ Contact Gershen Law today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you move forward with strength, confidence, and the trusted legal support you need.

The road to recovery starts with one call — and we are ready to walk that path with you.