Dog Bites

San Francisco Dog Bite Attorney

Serious Representation For Life‑Changing Dog Attacks

A serious dog attack can turn an ordinary day into a medical crisis. Deep bites, infection, and scarring are not minor injuries, and when a child is involved the fear and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. If you were injured by a dog in San Francisco, you deserve clear answers and focused legal guidance.

At Peterson Injury Law, we represent people and families facing complex, high-stakes injury cases, including severe dog bites. For more than 30 years, our firm has taken on a limited number of life-altering matters so we can fully investigate what happened, understand the medical issues, and work to secure compensation that supports long-term recovery.

Our work has helped clients obtain over $200 million in recoveries, including the largest medical malpractice result in California history. That experience in complex, medically intensive litigation is the foundation we bring to serious dog bite claims. We offer free consultations, and you pay no upfront costs to speak with our team about what happened.

Contact our San Francisco dog bite lawyer by calling (415) 630-2913 today!

Why Choose Our Firm

When a dog bite leads to surgery, visible scarring, or psychological trauma, you are not dealing with a simple insurance claim. You need a team that is built for high-stakes injury litigation and that understands how medical decisions today affect your health and finances years from now. That is the space where our firm operates every day.

We intentionally limit the number of cases we accept so we can devote substantial time and resources to each family. Instead of running a high-volume practice, we focus on life-changing injuries that require detailed investigation, careful damage analysis, and thoughtful advocacy. For someone facing a serious dog bite, that approach means more attention to how your injuries will affect work, relationships, and quality of life going forward.

Our track record includes more than $200 million recovered for clients and landmark outcomes such as the largest medical malpractice recovery in California history. These results show that we know how to present complex medical evidence, deal with institutional defendants, and pursue compensation that takes future care into account. While no result can predict the outcome of your case, they do reflect how we approach serious injury litigation.

What To Do After A Dog Bite

In the hours and days after a dog attack, it can be hard to know what to do first. Taking a few key steps can help protect your health and also preserve important information for any future claim. Every situation is different, but there are common actions that are usually helpful.

Always put your safety and medical needs first. Seek emergency care or see a doctor as soon as possible, even if the wound looks small on the surface. Dog bites can drive bacteria deep into tissue and infection can develop quickly. Ask your provider to carefully document all injuries, pain levels, and any concerns about function or sensation.

Reporting the incident is also important. In San Francisco, you can contact San Francisco Animal Care & Control to report the bite and, when appropriate, confirm vaccination information or any prior complaints about the animal. An official report can help establish that the incident occurred and may be relevant if there are questions later about the dog’s history.

If you are able, gather information at or soon after the scene. This can include the dog owner’s name and contact information, the address where the bite occurred, and contact details for any witnesses. Photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog, if safe to obtain, can be very valuable. Keep copies of all medical records, discharge instructions, and out-of-pocket expenses.

California Dog Bite Liability

After a dog attack, one of the first questions people ask is whether the owner is responsible for the harm. California has a specific dog bite statute that, in many situations, holds dog owners liable when their dog bites someone in a public place or when the person is lawfully on private property. This is different from some states that require proof of a prior attack.

In practical terms, that statute often applies to bites that happen on sidewalks, in city parks, in apartment common areas, or when someone is visiting a home with permission. The details still matter, including where the incident occurred and whether the injured person had a legal right to be there. Our attorneys review those facts carefully as part of the initial evaluation.

There are situations where other legal theories may come into play. For example, if a landlord knew of a dog’s dangerous behavior and did not take reasonable steps to address it, or if a property manager ignored repeated complaints about an aggressive animal in a shared space, that may affect who can be held responsible. Each case requires a fact-specific review rather than assumptions.

Time limits also apply. California law generally gives injured people a limited window to file a personal injury lawsuit, and certain types of claims or defendants can involve different timelines. Waiting too long can make it harder to locate witnesses, preserve medical evidence, or document how your injuries have progressed.

We work to identify all potential sources of recovery, which may include homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance, or other applicable policies. By combining our understanding of California dog bite law with careful investigation, we aim to build a clear picture of liability and position your claim for a fair resolution.

Serious Dog Bite Injuries We Handle

Not every dog bite requires a litigation firm. Our practice is designed for cases where the injuries are significant, the medical care is complex, or the long-term consequences are uncertain. If you are facing surgery, ongoing therapy, visible scarring, or serious emotional distress, you are the type of client we are built to help.

Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks. Their smaller size means they are more likely to be bitten in the face or neck, and the psychological impact can be profound. Nightmares, fear of animals, and anxiety about leaving home are all issues families may face. Our background in pediatric harm cases informs how we document and present these kinds of losses.

Examples of serious injuries from dog attacks include:

Deep puncture wounds and lacerations that require sutures or surgical repair
Facial injuries that may need plastic or reconstructive surgery
Nerve damage in the hands, arms, or face affecting movement or sensation
Infections that require hospitalization or long-term antibiotics
Significant scarring and disfigurement affecting appearance and self-confidence
Psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress symptoms

Because we evaluate each case with a Registered Nurse from the outset, we work to ensure that these medical and emotional dimensions are fully captured. We focus not only on what you have already endured, but also on the care, support, and financial resources you are likely to need in the future.

$3.75 Million Anesthesia Error
$6.25 Million Anoxic Brain Injury, Anesthesia Error
Record-Setting $17 Million Birth Injury Settlement

See More Wins

Erik and his team were incredibly helpful.
“Erik and his team were incredibly helpful. They consistently helped me through the unfamiliar and uncertain legal processes, which were all new to me. I trusted Erik always had my best interests in mind and was fighting on my behalf. I deeply appreciate all they did for me and my family.”

- Peter M.
I truly appreciate everything they did for us.
“Erik and his paralegal, Kate, were incredible throughout our case. Erik is an amazing attorney, he was open with us from the very beginning, attentive, and always made sure we understood every step of the process. His honesty and professionalism gave us so”

- Joyce D.
We cannot recommend Erik and his team highly enough.
“Working with Erik Peterson was an exceptional experience during one of the most difficult times in our lives. As we faced shock and a maze of medical decisions, Erik seamlessly took on our medical malpractice case with professionalism, compassion, and deep expertise. From our very first conversation, it was clear that Erik had both the knowledge and the sensitivity to guide us through the process with integrity. Erik ultimately secured a settlement that protected our financial future and gave us peace of mind to focus our energy on healing and recovery. We are profoundly grateful for his guidance and advocacy, and we cannot recommend Erik and his team highly enough.”

- Jennifer B.
I am so very grateful to my lawyer, Erik
“I am so very grateful to my lawyer, Erik and his team for his unwavering support, dedication and commitment. Thank you for all your hard work leading us to a victorious outcome in court!”

- Quia K.
He was always truthful and honest but also caring.
“My wife and I are forever grateful to Erik and his team for putting the effort and care for our son and his needs. We chose Erik over another lawyer because they took the time to FaceTime with us and speak to us on a personal level which made us feel safe and heard. Throughout the process Erik was very communicative and detailed in explaining how all the legal things worked and how long things took. He was always truthful and honest but also caring. At the end Erik and his team were able to help us and now our son will have his needs met and a more comfortable life. Thank you.”

- Adrian B.
Erik, I'm incredibly grateful that [husband stroke victim] continues to improve - long after it was thought to be possible.
“He couldn't have managed independence to this extent, his current level of physical activity, or the complexity of his recent social interactions 6 months ago. None of it would have happened without ongoing therapeutic support - which has only been possible with the financial settlement.”

- Former Client
Thank you Erik for winning our case!
“Thank you Erik for winning our case! Erik and his team are superb. If you are in need of his attorney services, it is likely, like myself, that you are experiencing one of the most traumatic and painful times of your life. Of course you want an excellent lawyer - and he is it. The bonus: he is also a genuinely real and kind human being. I am so grateful to him and his team.”

- Margaret C.
Erik Peterson handled my case with care and compassion.
“His knowledge and attention to detail was stellar, making me feel secure during a difficult case. Unlike most people in life, he was always upfront with me and kept me updated every step of the way, which is truly not what I was expecting from a lawyer. Although it was determined my case could take several years, especially during a pandemic, due to his dedication it was over in only 2yrs and made the process as easy for me as possible. I would absolutely recommend this firm and use him again if I ever need to, although I hope I don't.”

- Kristy N.
This whole experience can be overwhelming but Erik kept me in the loop on everything.
“My husband passed due to medical malpractice and I didn't know what to do or who to call. All I knew was I needed to get him justice. I researched and found Erik Peterson on google and reviewed various reviews on various sites. He was very patient and fought for me and my late husband. Erik told me what to expect ahead of time so I could prepare myself mentally. All in all, I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone who may need legal assistance in personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death. They are excellent and I can't say enough good things about them.”

- Kiki A.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Really Need A Lawyer For A Dog Bite?

You may benefit from a lawyer if injuries are significant, involve scarring, infection, or time off work. Insurers often try to minimize these claims. Our team can evaluate the medical and legal issues, handle communications, and work to secure compensation that reflects your long-term needs.

What If The Dog Belongs To A Friend Or Neighbor?

This situation is common and understandably sensitive. Claims are typically paid by homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not directly by the person you know. We can explain how insurance works, discuss options, and help you make choices that balance your health, finances, and relationships.

How Long Do California Dog Bite Cases Take?

Timelines vary based on injury severity, medical recovery, and how insurers respond. Some claims resolve in several months, while more complex cases can take longer. We outline likely phases early, keep you informed as things progress, and adjust strategy as more information about your healing becomes available.

Can You Help If My Child Was Bitten?

Yes. We frequently assist families when a child has been injured. We pay close attention to medical needs, future care, and emotional effects such as fear or anxiety. Our team explains the additional legal considerations that apply to minors and works to protect your child’s long-term interests.

WE'RE HERE FOR YOU

Talk With Our Team About Your Dog Bite Case

Deciding what to do after a serious dog attack is not something you should have to face alone. A conversation with our firm can help you understand how California law applies to your situation, what compensation may be available, and how a focused litigation team can support your recovery.

When you contact Peterson Injury Law, you speak with a team that combines deep medical understanding, decades of serious injury litigation experience, and a commitment to clear, compassionate communication. Consultations are free, and you do not pay upfront fees. We are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you decide on your next steps.

To discuss your potential case, call (415) 630-2913.

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