There was a report of a terrifying dog bite incident at a dog park in Patterson, California, which almost killed a little dog. The Patterson Irrigator reports that 63-year-old Rachel Newcomb and her son Ron Toscano, took their 12-pound American terrier, Tiny, for a walk in the dog park. Without any warning, a large pit bull brutally attacked Tiny, taking the terrier in its jaws and tearing it apart.
A Horrible and Bloody Attack
Newcomb says the scene was horrible and bloody, with the pit bull ripping apart the terrier's stomach and intestines. Newcomb and Toscano battled with the pit bull to get their dog back. The pit bull then turned on Toscano, who was recovering from heart surgery, and bit him on the wrist. The two children who brought the 100-pound pit bull to the park were not able to control the dog at all. So far, Tiny has undergone $3,000 worth of surgery. Doctors say the dog may not be able to walk again.
I deeply sympathize with this dog owner for the horrifying experience she went through. I hope Toscano's injuries were not serious. I'm glad that no other children or adults suffered serious personal injuries during this vicious dog attack.
California's Dog Bite Laws
In the state of California, dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their pets – be it in public property or private property. The only exception is when the victim is trespassing, for example, trying to commit an assault or burglary. California’s Civil Code Section 334 states: "The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness."
In this particular case, officials have not been able to track down the pit bull or its owner. I fear for the neighborhood or the community where this dog is still roaming around. There's another dog attack waiting to happen. In such dog attacks authorities should confiscate the dog and penalize the owner. In this particular case, Newcomb could seek compensation to cover medical expenses and emotional distress. An experienced California personal injury lawyer will be able to help dog bite victims with their claim for compensation and better explain their legal rights and options.
We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not a fault" persons named in this article and their family members.
