A dog bite can happen in an instant, but the physical and emotional damage may last a lifetime. If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog in San Bernardino County, you have legal rights. The team at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel (LMSCR) has been helping injury victims recover compensation for more than 40 years. We are committed to holding negligent dog owners accountable and helping our clients move forward with confidence.

Our attorneys understand the pain, stress, and uncertainty that follow a dog bite. We offer trusted legal counsel backed by decades of personal injury experience—and we’re ready to fight for you.

Can I Sue for a Dog Bite in California?

Yes. California is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. That means dog owners are legally responsible for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog had never bitten before or shown signs of aggression.

Under California Civil Code Section 3342, you can bring a claim if:

• You were bitten in a public place.
• You were lawfully on private property.
• The bite was unprovoked.

You do not have to prove that the dog owner was negligent. At LMSCR, we will review the details of your case and help you understand your legal options under California law.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Dog Bite?

Dog bites can result in severe injuries that may require extensive and ongoing treatment. Victims are often eligible to recover damages for:

• Emergency medical care and hospitalization.
• Surgeries, including reconstructive or plastic surgery.
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation.
• Psychological counseling or treatment for trauma.
• Lost income during recovery.
• Loss of future earning potential.
• Pain and suffering.
• Disfigurement and permanent scarring.
• Property damage, such as torn clothing or broken glasses.

At LMSCR, we work with medical professionals and financial experts to calculate the full value of your losses and demand fair compensation on your behalf.

Who Is Responsible for a Dog Bite?

In most cases, the dog owner is the party held responsible. However, depending on the circumstances, others may also be liable, including:

• Landlords who knew of a tenant’s dangerous dog and failed to take action.
• Caretakers such as dog walkers or sitters who failed to control the animal.
• Property owners who allowed a dog on-site despite knowing it posed a danger.
• Businesses or service providers where the bite occurred.

LMSCR will investigate every angle of your case to determine liability and locate applicable insurance coverage to support your claim.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in San Bernardino County

Taking the right steps after a dog bite can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately. Even minor-looking bites can become infected or lead to complications.
• Report the incident. File a report with San Bernardino County Animal Control to create an official record.
• Document everything. Take pictures of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog, if possible.
• Collect information. Get the dog owner’s name, address, and insurance details.
• Do not speak with insurance adjusters. Let your attorney handle all communication.
• Contact a dog bite lawyer. LMSCR can assess your case during a free consultation and guide you through the next steps.

What if My Child Has Been Bitten by a Dog?

Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks and often suffer more serious injuries, including facial wounds and psychological trauma. If your child was bitten by a dog:

• You can file a personal injury claim on their behalf.
• Courts typically require approval of any settlement involving a minor.
• Compensation can help cover future medical care, therapy, and other long-term impacts.

At LMSCR, we handle child injury claims with compassion and diligence, always keeping your child’s best interests at the forefront.

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

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years from the date of the injury. If you do not file within that time, you may lose your right to recover compensation.

However, exceptions may apply:

• If the victim is a minor, the two-year clock may not begin until they turn 18.
• If the dog is owned by a government agency, you may have only six months to file a claim.

LMSCR recommends speaking with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.

Why Choose Our Firm to be Your San Bernardino County Dog Bite Lawyers?

When you choose LMSCR, you’re choosing a law firm with a proven record of results, a deep understanding of California dog bite law, and a reputation for putting clients first.

We offer:

• Over 40 years of experience handling personal injury cases in San Bernardino County.
• Personalized service and direct communication with your attorney.
• Skilled negotiation and litigation to pursue maximum compensation.
• No fees unless we win—you don’t pay us anything unless we recover for you.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in dog bite cases. We know their tactics and how to push back.

Serving Dog Bite Victims Across San Bernardino County

LMSCR proudly serves clients in:

• San Bernardino
• Fontana
• Ontario
• Rancho Cucamonga
• Victorville
• Redlands
• Highland
• Chino
• Upland
• And other nearby communities

No matter where the dog attack happened in the Inland Empire, we are ready to help.

Contact Our San Bernardino Dog Bite Lawyers at LMSCR Today

A dog bite can turn your life upside down. Whether you’ve suffered a serious injury, missed work, or are struggling with emotional trauma, you deserve experienced legal support. LMSCR is here to help you seek justice and rebuild. Contact us today for a free consultation. Call our San Bernardino County dog bite lawyers at 909-889-1131 or contact us online. Located in Ontario and Victorville, California, we serve clients in San Bernardino County, Ontario, Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County.