Two people sustained serious personal injuries after they were attacked on a Los Angeles street by three 100-pound bullmastiffs the morning of April 16, 2010. According to a Fox News report, the dogs attacked a woman on Slauson Avenue and in neighboring West 58th Place. Those who saw the horrific incident told police that they heard the woman's cries for help after she was surrounded and mauled by the three large dogs that were running loose in the neighborhood. A man driving by stopped to come to the woman's rescue. But he was also bitten by the dogs and injured. Both were taken to a local hospital. Police shot and killed one of the dogs and confiscated the other two. An investigation is ongoing.

I hope that these dog bite victims did not sustain major injuries. I pray for their quick and complete recovery. It is indeed fortunate, given the circumstances of this dog attack, that neither of the victims was fatally injured.

Strict Liability Statute

If the details of this news report are accurate, the dogs were running loose in the neighborhood. It is not clear how they got out of their home and on to the street. Under California law, dog owners are liable for injuries caused to others by their animals. In California, this is known as the "strict liability statute."

What this means is that dog owners are responsible for their pets no matter what, whether the victim is attacked in a public or private property. The only exceptions are when the animal was provoked or tortured or if the dog bit a trespasser, burglar or assailant. Under this statute, dog owners can be held financially responsible even if he or she was not aware of the dog's prior viciousness.

Pursuing Your Rights

Injured victims in such incidents would be well-advised to consult with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will make sure that the negligent owners are held responsible and that the victim receives just compensation for his or her injuries and/or losses.

What precautions do you take in your neighborhood to prevent dog attacks? Do you believe there are dangerous or vicious dogs in your neighborhood?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.