Lawmakers Set To Pass Bill Covering California Dog Bite Liability
| April 8th, 2013
April 8, 2013 In an effort to better protect cities from liability in California Dog Bite cases, a bill is being examined by state lawmakers that would prohibit government entities from being held responsible for “injury or death suffered by a pet or person” at dog parks. According to an article from the Capitol Weekly, the bill was unanimously approved by the Assembly Judiciary Committee this past Tuesday as a way to promote government officials supporting the construction of more dog parks in the state. While the current California Tort Claims Act already protects local governments from being held liable for the act of a dog on public property, proponents of the new measure say it is an added guarantee of protection when considering dog park projects. Assemblyman, Mike Gatto, explained when a dog bite or attack occurs at a park, the victim will likely attempt to hold the owner of the animal responsible for the dog’s actions. If the victim is unable to recover compensation or damages from that individual though, they will often attempt to collect from the host city or county. Gatto adds that the law closely mirrors legislation that was put into place for the state’s numerous skateboard parks. The California Injury Attorneys with Berg Injury Lawyers are aware of the serious dangers a dog bite can present and are hopeful the measure will be effective in holding owners more responsible for the actions of their animals.
