Understanding California’s Dog Bite Laws: What Sebastopol Residents Should Know 

From morning walks downtown to off-leash playing in nearby parks, most dog interactions are peaceful and fun in Sebastopol. But not all are. When a dog suddenly turns aggressive and bites, the result can be physically painful, emotionally traumatic, and legally complicated. 

If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog in Sebastopol, you might feel overwhelmed, especially if the dog belongs to a friend, neighbor, or family member. You may be asking yourself, "Do I really want to make this a legal issue?" or "Will I be able to afford the medical bills?" or even "Who’s responsible for what happened?". 

At Flahavan Law, we understand the sensitivity of dog bite cases. We've spent over 20 years helping injured individuals throughout Sebastopol understand their rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and recover the compensation they need to move forward. If you're unsure what to do next, you're not alone, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. 

California’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law: What It Means for You 

One of the most essential things Sebastopol residents should know is that California follows a “strict liability” law regarding dog bites. That means the dog’s owner is typically responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has no history of aggression and even if the owner had no prior knowledge that the dog might bite. 

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, if a dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property (including the dog owner’s property), the owner is liable. There’s no requirement to prove negligence or that the dog had bitten before, unlike in some other states.   

This law reflects a clear public policy: dog owners are responsible for controlling their animals. If someone is bitten, the burden shouldn’t fall on the victim. However, this doesn’t mean the process is always simple. Insurance companies may still try to blame the victim, minimize injuries, or delay claims, especially if the bite involved a child, occurred on private property, or was partially witnessed.   

When Is the Owner Not Liable? 

While strict liability applies to most dog bite cases in California, there are a few exceptions. For example, if the injured person was trespassing on private property, provoking the dog, or committing a crime at the time of the attack, the owner may not be held fully liable. Additionally, strict liability applies specifically to bites, so if a dog knocks someone over without biting them, a traditional negligence claim would need to be pursued. 

These distinctions can make or break your case. That’s why it’s essential to speak with our team, so we can analyze the facts, determine which legal standards apply, and guide you through the process. At Flahavan Law, we’ll take the time to learn what really happened because you deserve to have your side of the story heard and your injuries taken seriously. 

Common Injuries from Dog Bites 

Dog bites are often more than a quick puncture or scratch that goes away shortly after. Depending on the size and breed of the dog, the bite’s force can cause serious injuries that require months of treatment. 

Many victims suffer: 

• Deep lacerations and torn skin 
• Muscle or tendon damage 
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement 
• Infections, including those from bacteria like Pasteurella or MRSA 
• Nerve damage 
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD, is especially prevalent in children 

The emotional impact of a dog attack can last far longer than the physical wounds. Children may develop a fear of dogs or refuse to go near places where the attack occurred. Adults may struggle with anxiety, flashbacks, or social embarrassment due to scarring. 

Recovering from a dog bite is rarely simple or inexpensive. That’s why California law allows victims to seek full compensation for their injuries, not just reimbursement for a hospital visit. 

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Dog Bite? 

If you or your child has been bitten, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including: 

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgery, stitches, follow-up visits, medication, and therapy. 
• Future medical costs: For reconstructive surgery or long-term mental health treatment. 
• Lost income: If your injuries kept you out of work or impacted your ability to earn. 
• Pain and suffering: For physical pain, emotional trauma, and overall impact on your life. 
• Scarring and disfigurement: Significant in cases involving the face, neck, or hands. 
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If the injury affects your ability to engage in hobbies, work, or relationships. 

Each dog bite case is unique, and the full impact of the injury isn’t always immediately visible. At Flahavan Law, we work closely with medical professionals, therapists, and financial experts to ensure your claim reflects the full scope of your suffering and future needs. 

How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in California? 

In most cases, California law gives you two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you fail to file within that window, you could lose your right to seek compensation altogether. 

That said, the sooner you contact our team, the better. Evidence can fade quickly. Photos of the wound, witness statements, and even the dog’s behavior after the attack can all play a role in building your case, and having access to gather this information upfront is beneficial. Please don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’ve been bitten, let Flahavan Law start protecting your rights immediately. 

Why Flahavan Law Is the Right Choice for Sebastopol Dog Bite Victims 

At Flahavan Law, we understand that this is a personal matter. You may be dealing with pain, embarrassment, uncertainty about medical bills, or even tension within your circle of friends or community. Whether the dog belonged to a stranger or someone you know, you shouldn’t have to suffer in silence. 

Attorney Brian Flahavan has earned a reputation throughout Sebastopol for his personal approach, in-depth legal knowledge, and aggressive advocacy. With over 20 years of experience handling personal injury claims across Sonoma County, Brian and his team are committed to making sure you’re treated fairly, not just by the insurance companies, but by the legal system as a whole. 

We take pride in offering: 

• Personalized, one-on-one attention to every client 
• Clear, honest guidance on your legal options 
• Aggressive representation when the other side tries to minimize your suffering 
• No upfront fees 

A dog bite can turn your life upside down in an instant, but you don’t have to go through the aftermath alone. Whether your injuries are physical, emotional, or both, you have rights, and Flahavan Law is here to help protect them. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, help you understand your options, and begin fighting for the compensation you deserve.