Maison Law Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fremont’s team of dog bite lawyers are here for you and your family after your life has been affected by a dog attack. We understand how quickly a severe dog bite can affect everything you do in life, from your health to your daily activities. For a no-obligation consultation and to find out what options you have, contact us today.

Do You Need a Lawyer After a Dog Bite Accident?

Handling a dog bite situation might be one of the most difficult things that you have ever been through. As you make the decision to move forward with a personal injury claim, you may wonder if you need the help of an attorney on your side. If you have sustained minor injuries in your accident, you may be able to handle your claim on your own.

However, many dog bite incidents in Fremont involve catastrophic and traumatic injuries and emotional damage. There may even be questions concerning liability if the dog bite incident happened at a park or another place where you were legally permitted to be. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you in the midst of your claim. Some of the things we can do for you include:

  • Investigate what caused your accident
  • Explain all legal options that are available to you
  • Gather crucial evidence and determine who is liable for your accident
  • Provide you with medical experts
  • Assist you through the claims process, including meeting deadlines
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Who is Responsible for a Dog Bite Attack in Fremont?

In the state of California, strict liability applies to dog bite cases. In fact, Section 3342 of the California Civil Code, states that:

  • Dog owners are liable for the injuries and damages that their dog cause. This applies even in cases when an owner was unaware that their dog acts in an aggressive manner.

The only exceptions that exist are if you, as the victim, were trespassing or provoked the dog at the time of the accident. In any other situation, the owner of the dog that bit you will be responsible for any of the damages you have suffered from.

Who’s Most at Risk of a Dog Bite in Fremont?

In a city like Fremont—where neighborhoods range from quiet residential blocks to busy commercial centers—dog bites can happen almost anywhere. While anyone can be bitten, certain groups tend to face more risk based on age, occupation, or physical ability. Knowing who’s most vulnerable can go a long way toward preventing a serious incident:

  • Young children – Kids are the most common victims of dog bites. Whether it’s playing at Fremont Central Park or visiting a neighbor’s home, children often get too close to dogs without noticing the warning signs. Because of their height, they’re more likely to suffer bites to the face or neck.

  • Delivery drivers and service workers – With so many Fremont residents relying on food delivery, mail services, and home repairs, workers often walk right into a dog’s territory. Dogs may become defensive when someone steps onto the porch or into the yard—especially if they’re not used to visitors.

  • Older adults – Seniors, whether living independently or in one of Fremont’s retirement communities, may have a harder time reacting quickly or defending themselves if a dog becomes aggressive.

  • Dog owners themselves – Many bites happen at home, even with familiar pets. Trying to break up a dog fight, touch a wounded dog, or stop rough play can sometimes trigger a bite—especially if the dog feels scared or in pain.

  • People with disabilities – Those with limited mobility or cognitive impairments may not be able to read a dog’s body language or react fast enough if something goes wrong.

Being aware of these risks doesn’t mean you need to avoid dogs altogether—it just means staying mindful, especially in public spaces or unfamiliar environments. And beyond who’s at risk, it’s just as important to understand where dog bites tend to happen in Fremont.

Where Do Dog Bites Usually Happen in Fremont?

In a dog-friendly city like Fremont, bites can happen in places you might not expect. From family neighborhoods to bustling public parks, certain areas see more incidents than others—especially when dogs aren’t properly supervised.

  • Houses and apartments – The vast majority of dog bites in Fremont happen on private property. That could mean in a backyard, an apartment, or even a shared hallway in your condo complex. Often, it’s a friend or family member’s dog involved—someone you trusted.

  • Local sidewalks and neighborhood streets – Whether you’re walking near Lake Elizabeth or strolling through your own neighborhood, dogs that are off-leash, poorly fenced, or not securely held can pose a serious risk—especially if they feel startled or protective.

  • Parks – Fremont’s dog parks, like Central Park Dog Park or Old Mission Park, are meant for fun and exercise. But not all dogs play well with others. Off-leash areas can lead to bites when tempers flare between dogs or when a person tries to step in.

  • Stores and workplaces – Some Fremont businesses are pet-friendly. While that’s great for dog lovers, it can turn risky if a dog feels overwhelmed in a crowded shop or startled by a stranger.

  • Delivery routes and service calls – With so many residents using delivery apps and home services, drivers and workers often come face-to-face with unfamiliar dogs. A quick drop-off can quickly escalate if a dog is loose or guarding the property.

  • Bike and motorcycle routes – People that are riding on Fremont Boulevard or cruising through Niles have reported bites or near-misses from dogs that chase after fast-moving wheels. It’s not just about the bite—it can cause dangerous falls and secondary collisions.

While these scenarios are common, a dog bite doesn’t just happen “out of nowhere.” They usually happen in familiar places, during everyday moments. And the most frequent outcome is a range of injuries.

What Injuries Result from Dog Bites?

Dogs attack with their sharp teeth and tend to target an individual’s face, hands, arms, and legs. Some of the most common types of injuries that result from dog bite attacks include the following:

  • Facial injuries and disfigurement
  • Nerve damage to the area
  • Infection from the bite wound
  • Loss of eyes or limbs
  • Brain trauma if you were pushed down
  • Permanent scarring
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Broken bones

The injuries that stem from a dog bite attack can be permanently damaging, as well as causing immense emotional damage. In some cases, the injuries that stem from these accidents can be permanent or even cause a person to tragically lose their life. But before you can start thinking about your legal options, you need to know what steps to take to protect yourself.

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite in Fremont?

It’s shocking to be bitten by a dog, no matter what the circumstances are. But if you can stay calm, a few key steps can make a huge difference in your recovery. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Get medical attention as soon as possible – Even a bite that looks minor can turn serious fast. Head to an urgent care clinic or hospital in Fremont—like Washington Hospital—to clean the wound and start antibiotics if needed.

  • Find out who owns the dog – If it’s safe, try to get the dog owner’s name and contact information. This is especially important for checking vaccination status. If they’re not around or refuse to talk, don’t push—it’s better to report it right away.

  • Report the bite to Fremont Animal Services – The city’s animal control team can track down the dog, check its records, and investigate if the dog has bitten someone before. This helps protect others—and supports your own case if you file a claim.

  • Document what happened – Take pictures of your injuries, the area where it happened (whether it’s a sidewalk, park, or driveway), and any torn clothes or broken items. Write down what you remember while it’s still fresh.

It’s hard to think straight after a dog bite, especially when you’re in pain or worried about infection. But taking these small, practical steps can protect your health and set the stage for the support you may need later.

How Does the Legal Process Work After a Dog Bite Incident?

After you have been hurt in a dog bite attack, you will have to decide how you want to move forward with a claim. You may choose to file an insurance claim against the dog’s owner or file a personal injury lawsuit. From there, the following steps will take place:

  • You will file your claim with the help of your attorney.
  • The insurance company will start to investigate the circumstances of the accident.
  • Both sides will provide their evidence and present their claims.
  • The insurance company will offer you a settlement.

In some cases, the settlement offer may be too low and will not cover all of your needs financially. In these cases, you may have no choice but to file a personal injury lawsuit for your “damages.”

What Damages Are Available After You Suffered Injuries in a Fremont Dog Attack?

A dog bite can affect you on physical, emotional, and financial levels. Because of this, there may be a variety of damages that may be available for you in a claim.

Some of the damages you may find that you are eligible for include:

  • Medical expenses and bills that you may incur in the future
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Lost wages and future loss of earnings
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Property damage related to the bite
  • Punitive damages if gross negligence was involved
  • Wrongful death damages if a victim tragically lost their life

Your dog bite accident claim is subject to California’s statute of limitations. This means that you have two years from the date of the incident to file your claim. If you fail to meet these deadlines, you could forfeit all opportunities for financial compensation. Speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident can offer you the protections that you need during these challenging times.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I file a claim after a dog bite in Fremont?

You have up to two years from the date of the bite, but starting sooner makes it easier to get evidence and find the dog’s owner.

Fremont requires dogs to be leashed in most public spaces. If the dog was off-leash when it bit you, do everything you can to get to safety, then report what happened to Fremont Animal Services. They can help you from there.

Yes. You can file a claim on behalf of your child. A dog bite involving your child is likely going to lead to both physical and emotional trauma, which can be part of the claim. Also, the statute of limitations doesn’t kick in until your child turns 18.

Contact a Fremont CA Dog Bite Lawyer Today for More Information

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