California Injury Blog
Two dogs were seized and placed under quarantine in La Mesa after they escaped from a backyard kennel and jumped over a fence attacking a mother who was pushing her 2-year-old son in a stroller. According to a news report in the San Diego Union Tribune, the two Rottweilers attacked the woman and her son the morning of June 21 as they were walking on Waite Driver near 69th Street.
Horrific Dog Attack
After the dogs escaped from their yard, they crossed the street and immediately attacked the boy. The woman was trying to pull the stroller away when one of the dogs jumped on her, knocked her to the ground and began to bite her. The other dog continued to attack the boy. Neighbors and the dogs’ owner heard the commotion and rushed to the victims’ aid. The dogs’ owner managed to pull the animals away and put them back in his backyard.
Both victims were transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. They are expected to survive. The woman reportedly suffered several puncture wounds on her arm while the 2-year-old suffered bite wounds to his head, face and arm. He will need to undergo surgery on his arm. The woman’s 8-year-old daughter who was also walking with them was not injured. The incident is under investigation by La Mesa police and the city’s animal control department.
Our thoughts and prayers are with this family, which has, by all accounts, endured a horrific dog attack. We wish both the mother and her son the very best for a quick and full recovery.
Dog Bite Liability Issues
California has a strict liability statute when it comes to dog attacks. This means that dog owners can be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused by their pets. Dog attacks not only result in severe physical injuries, but also serious psychological trauma. This is particularly true where young children are involved. Some of the common psychological effects include paranoia and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.
If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, you may be able to receive compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, cost of psychological therapy, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Please contact an experienced San Diego dog bite lawyer who can help you better understand your legal rights and options.