Dog Bites Pasadena

Residents and visitors in Pasadena, a city within Los Angeles County, frequently encounter dogs in residential neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces. While pet ownership is common, dog bites remain a significant safety concern. In 2024, Los Angeles led all U.S. cities in the number of dog attacks on U.S. Postal Service carriers, with 77 incidents reported, and California ranked first among all states with 701 incidents. This statistic highlights the relevance of animal control issues within the region, including Pasadena.

When a dog bite occurs, specific state statutes and local municipal codes dictate liability and the legal recourse available to the injured party. Benji Personal Injury Accident Attorneys provides legal counsel to individuals navigating these regulations. The following sections outline the legal framework regarding dog bites in Pasadena and the broader Los Angeles County area.

California Strict Liability Laws

California Civil Code § 3342 establishes the foundation for dog bite litigation in the state. California follows a doctrine of strict liability. This statute holds a dog owner liable for damages if their dog bites another person. The liability attaches regardless of whether the dog showed previous signs of aggression or viciousness.

Strict liability applies provided the victim was either:

• In a public place.
• Lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner.

Under this code, a victim does not need to prove the owner was negligent or careless. The claimant must simply demonstrate that the bite occurred and that they were legally present at the location. California law rejects the "one-bite rule" found in other jurisdictions. An owner remains responsible even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

Pasadena Municipal Code Regulations

Local ordinances in Pasadena reinforce state laws and impose specific duties on dog owners. The Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) declares that dangerous dogs pose a threat to community safety. PMC § 6.18.015 mandates that owners must prevent their dogs from biting or harassing any person engaged in a lawful act.

The city enforces strict reporting protocols. Any individual with knowledge of a dog bite or attack on a human must report the incident to the Pasadena Humane Society, which handles animal control services for Pasadena. This reporting creates an official record, which is vital for tracking animal behavior and establishing a history of aggression. To report a dog bite in Pasadena, individuals should call the Pasadena Humane Society at (626) 792-7151.

Pasadena utilizes a Hearing Officer process under PMC Chapter 6.18 to classify dogs based on their behavior. A dog may be designated as:

• Potentially Dangerous: If the dog acts aggressively or bites without provocation.
• Vicious: If the dog inflicts severe injury or continues aggressive behavior after being deemed potentially dangerous.
• Public Nuisance: If the animal repeatedly disturbs the peace or threatens safety.

Failure to comply with orders issued after these hearings is a violation of the municipal code.

Recoverable Damages in Dog Bite Cases

Victims of dog bites often incur various financial and physical losses. Civil claims seek to compensate the injured party for these losses. Damages generally fall into economic and non-economic categories.

Exceptions and Defenses to Liability

While California enforces strict liability, specific exceptions exist. A dog owner may defend against a claim if the victim falls into certain legal categories at the time of the incident.

Trespassing

Strict liability protects individuals lawfully on the property. If a person is trespassing on private property without permission or legal authority, the owner may not be liable under Civil Code § 3342. This exception prevents burglars or unauthorized entrants from suing for injuries sustained during the commission of a crime or trespass.

Provocation

If the victim provoked the dog, a court may reduce or eliminate the owner's liability. Provocation includes teasing, hitting, or tormenting the animal. The law considers whether a reasonable person would expect the dog to react aggressively to the victim's actions.

Assumption of Risk

Certain professionals assume the risk of dog bites as part of their employment. Veterinarians, kennel workers, and animal control officers generally cannot sue an owner under strict liability if they are bitten while treating or handling the dog. This is known as the "Veterinarian's Rule."

Steps to Take After an Incident

Taking immediate action after a dog bite protects health and legal rights. The following steps are recommended for anyone injured in Pasadena or elsewhere in Los Angeles County:

• Seek Medical Attention: Dog bites carry a high risk of infection. Professional medical documentation also serves as evidence of the severity of the injury.
• Identify the Owner: Obtain the name, address, and contact information of the dog owner. Request proof of rabies vaccination.
• Report the Attack: File a report with the Pasadena Humane Society (for incidents in Pasadena) or the appropriate animal control agency in Los Angeles County, as required by municipal code.
• Gather Evidence: Photograph injuries, torn clothing, and the location of the attack. Collect contact information from any witnesses.

Statute of Limitations

California imposes a time limit on filing personal injury lawsuits. The statute of limitations for dog bite claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. Failure to file a claim within this period typically results in the court dismissing the case and the loss of the right to seek compensation. Minors may have extended deadlines, but immediate consultation with an attorney ensures all timelines are met.

Legal Representation for Dog Bite Victims

Benji Personal Injury Accident Attorneys assists clients in establishing liability and securing compensation. Our team investigates the history of the animal, secures records from Pasadena animal control (Pasadena Humane Society), and negotiates with insurance companies. We handle the procedural requirements of civil litigation to ensure compliance with California state law and Pasadena local regulations.