UC Berkeley Bans Off-Leash Dog Walking after Dog-Bite Incidents

Following 7 dog biting incidents over the recent months, the University of California, Berkeley no longer allows dog owners to walk their dogs without a leash on its campus. The new rule is intended to prevent further dog bite incidents and reduce distractions affecting service dogs on campus.

US Dog-Bite Incidents

Dog bite incidents are nothing new in the U.S. where dogs are some of the most loved pets, often kept for purposes of companionship and security. Studies also show that keeping a pet can be healthy for people, particularly the elderly.

Dogs are not always friendly. A number have been involved in dog bite incidents, causing serious and fatal injuries. Very young children appear to be the most vulnerable. In 2016, at least 3 newborn babies were reportedly killed in California after family-kept dogs bit them. Thousands of other dog attacks have caused injuries as well.

A study by the Insurance Information Institute revealed that there were 15,352 dog bite claims in 2015, making up more than a third of all homeowners’ insurance liability claims. Some breeds such as Pitbull, Rottweiler, German shepherd, Husky, and Bull Mastiff have attacked people, causing severe and fatal injuries in many cases.

Dog-Bite Rule

California has a Dog Bite Statute which holds a dog owner strictly liable for injury or property damage caused by their dogs. If you or a family member is attacked by someone else’s dog, getting emergency treatment is vital. Dog bites can cause deep wounds and internal bodily injuries that can change your lives forever.

It’s also wise to speak to an experienced dog bite attorney about the circumstances of your accident. Your attorney can analyze the details of your case to determine whether the dog owner’s negligence or recklessness was a factor in the unfortunate incident.

A dog owner’s liability for dog bites can include the value of the injured party’s:

• Medical bills
• Lost income or wages
• Property damage, if any
• Damages for pain and suffering

In Los Angeles, California, the Bedford Law Group is a professional law corporation with years of proven experience in a wide range of personal injury cases such as dog bites and dog attacks. We strive to obtain the maximum value of compensation that our clients legally deserve.

We welcome your call to us today at (310) 507-7900 to schedule a consultation with one of our dedicated attorneys.