Cerritos Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites can cause serious injuries that lead to costly medical bills, missed work, and ongoing pain. In fact, millions of dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, and many attacks result in long-term complications especially when the victim is a child or the bite causes scarring, nerve damage, or infection.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack in Cerritos, you may not know what to do right away. Whether the dog belongs to a stranger, a neighbor, or even a friend, understanding your legal options can be the key to recovering the compensation you need for medical care, lost wages, and the emotional impact of the incident.
At The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates, our experienced Cerritos dog bite lawyer team understands the serious physical and emotional toll a dog attack can take. If you’ve been bitten, we’re here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve while we handle the legal side and you focus on healing. Learn more about our firm.
Our office is conveniently located at 100 Oceangate, Suite 525, Long Beach, CA 90802, just off W. Ocean Blvd and Queens Way. It’s an easy drive from Cerritos via major routes like I-605 and SR-91, and convenient whether you’re coming from near Cerritos Towne Center, Los Cerritos Center, or the Cerritos Library / Civic Center area. Call us today at 562-216-2944 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let’s discuss your dog bite case and how we can help you pursue justice.
Recent Review
“I had an excellent experience with the Law Office of Robin Perry handling my personal injury case. From start to finish, they were timely, professional, and incredibly honest. Robin Perry and his team kept me informed every step of the way and made sure I understood my options. Their dedication and integrity gave me peace of mind during a stressful time. I highly recommend them for a law office that delivers outstanding results!”
Dog Bite Laws in Cerritos, CA
California has strong laws that protect dog bite victims. If a dog bites you in Cerritos, it’s important to understand how these rules generally work because they may allow you to pursue compensation even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Strict Liability Under California Civil Code Section 3342
California Civil Code Section 3342 generally holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. In plain terms, that means if a dog bites someone, the owner is typically responsible regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or whether the owner acted “carelessly.”
There are limited exceptions (such as certain trespassing situations or provocation), but in most cases, the law strongly favors the victim.
Leash Laws and Animal Control Issues
In Cerritos, like many California cities, dogs generally must be leashed or properly controlled in public areas. When an owner lets a dog roam freely, whether near neighborhood sidewalks, parks, or busy areas like Artesia Boulevard or Bloomfield Avenue, they may be exposing others to preventable harm. Even if the dog does not bite, uncontrolled dogs can cause injuries by knocking someone down or triggering a fall.
Reporting Requirements
Under California law, dog bites should be reported to local animal control. Reporting helps ensure the dog can be checked for rabies risk and that the incident is documented, documentation that can be important if you pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Dog Bite Injuries and Complications
Dog bites can cause injuries far beyond a visible puncture wound. Even a “small” bite can lead to complications and lasting consequences.
Physical Injuries
Common dog bite injuries include:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Fractures (especially in hands and arms)
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Soft tissue damage
- Nerve damage
Infections and Medical Complications
Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, and infections are common if treatment is delayed. Some bites may raise concerns involving tetanus or other medical complications. That’s why prompt medical care matters even if the injury looks manageable at first.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
Dog attacks can leave emotional scars, too. Many victims especially children develop:
- Fear of dogs
- Anxiety or panic around animals
- Nightmares or sleep disruption
- Symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress
Long-Term Effects
Some victims experience ongoing pain, limited movement, or permanent nerve damage. These injuries can affect work, school, hobbies, and everyday quality of life.
Where Do Dog Bites Happen in Cerritos?
Dog bites can happen anywhere, but they often occur in routine, everyday places during walks, playtime, or quick errands. In Cerritos, incidents frequently happen:
- In residential neighborhoods near sidewalks and front yards
- Near parks and community spaces like Heritage Park
- Along walkable corridors near Cerritos Towne Center and nearby shopping areas
- Near major streets like Artesia Boulevard, Carmenita Road, Bloomfield Avenue, and South Street, where foot traffic and pets are common
No matter where it happened, what matters is documenting the incident and protecting your rights.
Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit After an Attack
After a dog attack, you may need to file a claim or, in some cases, a lawsuit against the dog owner (often through their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance). Dog bite injuries can be expensive, especially if you need emergency care, stitches, surgery, physical therapy, or scar treatment. If your injury prevents you from working, you may also need compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
A Cerritos dog bite lawyer can help you:
- Understand your options and next steps
- Gather evidence (medical records, photos, witness info, reports)
- Communicate with insurance companies
- Fight for a fair settlement that reflects the full impact of your injuries
Insurance companies often try to pay less than what an injury truly costs especially when future medical needs are involved. Having legal representation can help level the playing field.
Contact Our Cerritos Dog Bite Lawyer Today
At The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates, we know you need someone on your side after a serious dog bite. Your recovery matters and it’s okay to take the steps needed to protect yourself and your family.
Ready to speak with a lawyer? Reach out to an experienced Cerritos dog bite lawyer at The Law Offices of Robin D. Perry & Associates today. Call 562-216-2944 now or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help.
