Legal Question in Personal Injury in California
Landlord in dog bite case
I am being sued by a person in our neighborhood that
claims she was bitten by a dog which is owned by our
renter. The dog that bit her in the public street in
front of our rental house was not owned by our renter.
The police interviewed the woman that owned the dog
and she claimed she lived at our rental house. I have
never had any rental contract with this woman ever.
She had lived with another neighbor that will not
claim she ever lived there. (I guess afraid of any
lawsuit that could come to her) I have no liability
insurance and now feel that I am the target because I
am the only one that owns anything. How should I
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Landlord in dog bite case
You must have insurance or you could not have obtained a loan. This type of matter is covered. You don't own the dog so it is not your responsibility. I represented Smokey Robinson years ago in a similar situation. We won. Your property insurance should cover it. If you have no insurance you are still in good shape. However, the defense costs are all yours and could be thousands of dollars.
Re: Landlord in dog bite case
First, make sure about your possible insurance. You might have public liability insurance for injuries on your property or other coverage. The fact is that if you were the landlord you might have exposure, but not necessarily. You should retain an attorney who can help defend you, as you may be sued based on the claim of the owner that she rented from you.
Re: Landlord in dog bite case
If you were served with a SUMMONS and COMPLAINT, then you must respond with an appropriate pleading. Protect you rights by obtaining representation immediately. Please contact me directly at (619) 222-3504.
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