Best Dog Bite Lawyers in Chula Vista, CA

Chula Vista, CA Dog Bite FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Chula Vista, California?

  Call 619-691-5151 to report non-emergency concerns to the Chula Vista Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Chula Vista, California?

  To get a copy of a police report, visit the Chula Vista Police HQ at 315 4th Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910. You can also mail a completed Report Request Form to the address below. Report copies cost $1 each. Requests are typically processed within 10–14 working days.  Mailing Address:  Chula Vista Police Department ATT: Police Support Services 315 4th Ave. Chula Vista, CA 91910 English and Spanish Request Forms can be downloaded at https://www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/police-department/services/request-a-copy-of-a-report.

• What does strict liability mean when it comes to dog bite cases in Chula Vista?

  Under California Civil Code 3342, "strict liability" means Chula Vista dog owners are liable for damages caused by their dog, whether or not there was negligence involved. If a person is bit by a dog while lawfully in a public or private space, they can sue the dog owner simply because they were bit. Strict liability, however, may not apply if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing.

• Is there a deadline for filing a dog bite case in Chula Vista?

  Yes. According to the California Code of Civil Procedures Section 3-335.1, legal actions for personal injury, such as dog bite injury, must be commenced within two years of the injury. Your right to compensation may be forfeited if you miss this deadline. If you got bit, contact a Chula Vista dog bite lawyer right away to help you file your claim on time.

• Can you claim compensation for emotional trauma following a dog bite incident in Chula Vista?

  Yes. Emotional trauma is considered a type of damage. While it is expected to experience initial trauma from a dog attack, some incidents lead to more severe damage, like panic attacks. To seek compensation, you must present proof of your condition, such as evaluations from a psychologist or psychiatrist. Your dog bite attorney in Chula Vista can help you recover medical expenses related to this type of damage.

• What if you are partly to blame for the dog biting you, can you still recover damages in Chula Vista?

  Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence law, it is possible to recover damages even if you are found to be partly liable. However, your compensation will be minimized in proportion to your level of fault. For example, if your damages amount to $40,000 but the Chula Vista dog owner is able to prove that you were 25% at fault for provoking the dog, you will only be able to recover $30,000.

• Can you file a case in Chula Vista if your injury did not result from a bite but from the dog attacking you or knocking you over?

  Yes. While you may not be able to sue the dog owner under the strict liability law, you can sue the owner for negligence leading to the dog attack. You can seek compensation for your damages through a negligence claim. Speak with a local dog bite attorney in Chula Vista to determine if this is the right legal option for you.