Post-COVID Dog Bite Injuries in Encinitas

In the first years of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers observed significant changes in animal behavior that directly impacted dog bite trends in America and across the globe. Many people who had never considered owning a pet adopted a dog for companionship during stay-at-home orders. Even those who had considered pet ownership a distant goal accelerated their plans, adopting cats and dogs in record numbers.

Simultaneously, the shift to remote work meant California residents spent more time at home with their pets. While this seemed beneficial, it often meant animals were cooped up without options for socializing at dog parks or daycare centers. According to research from the SPCA, some pet owners struggled “to meet physical and psychological welfare needs” of their dogs, and many delayed veterinary visits and training.

All of these factors played a role in the rise of dog bite incidents during and after the 2020 lockdowns. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an incident, speaking with a qualified Encinitas dog bite lawyer is the best first step toward understanding your rights.

Understanding Dog Bite Trends Since the Pandemic

Have the trends reverted to pre-pandemic numbers, or are dog bite cases still occurring at a high rate? Recent data suggests the latter.

A recent study from DogsBite.org found that dog bite incidents have continued to rise in the post-COVID years. Furthermore, data from the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) and State Farm reveals that in 2023, the number of dog bite and related injury claims nationwide increased to 19,062—an 8.3% jump from the previous year.

California consistently ranks as the leading state for these incidents. In 2023, California led the nation in the number of dog bite insurance claims. Additionally, the U.S. Postal Service released rankings for dog attacks on mail carriers, placing San Diego—just south of Encinitas—as the city with the 6th highest number of attacks in the country.

It is possible that the continued rise in cases is linked to the sheer volume of new dog owners compared to pre-pandemic levels. Notably, there has not been a significant shift in the specific breeds involved in these bites. The data reinforces what animal researchers have emphasized for years: any dog can bite under certain circumstances, and breed alone is not the sole determining factor for risk.

California Law: Strict Liability for Dog Bites

If you are injured, it is crucial to seek legal advice about filing a claim for compensation. Many victims hesitate, believing they must prove the owner knew the dog was aggressive. However, California is a “strict liability” state under Civil Code § 3342.

This means you do not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent or that the dog had a “prior history” of biting (often called the “one-bite rule” in other states). Instead, you typically only need to show that the defendant owned the dog and that the bite occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property. Because these laws can be specific regarding defenses like provocation, consulting an Encinitas dog bite lawyer is vital to protect your claim.

Preventing Dog Bite Injuries

Nearly all dog bites are preventable. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), it is critical to recognize body language that suggests an animal is anxious, scared, or sensing a threat. The AVMA also notes that children are the most common victims of dog bites and are far more likely to be severely injured. Teaching children to never approach an unfamiliar dog and to avoid disturbing a sleeping or eating animal is essential for safety.

Contact Our Encinitas Dog Bite Injury Attorneys Today

Avoiding a dog bite incident is obviously ideal, yet these attacks still occur and can cause serious, sometimes deadly harm. Children, in particular, tend to be at the greatest risk of debilitating injury.

When a dog bites, the owner is generally liable for the damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you were injured in a dog attack, or if your child sustained a serious injury, do not navigate the insurance process alone. Our experienced Encinitas dog bite lawyer team can help you build your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact the North County Injury Lawyers today to get started.