Overview > Dog Bite Injuries
Lawyers with Experience Representing Victims of Dog Bite Injuries
Compassionate and confidential legal help for dog bite victims. Get expert guidance. Call now at (604)984-7555 to get the support you need.
Help for Dog Bite Victims
A dog bite is not just a physical injury — it can leave lasting emotional and psychological trauma. Many victims experience fear, anxiety, scarring, and a lasting sense of vulnerability. In severe cases, dog attacks can cause broken bones, nerve damage, disfigurement, infection, and permanent disability.
These injuries can have a significant impact on your quality of life, ability to work, and sense of safety. Victims deserve to be heard, protected, and compensated for what they have endured.
At Hanson Kohan Lawyers, we only represent victims. Our clients are our top priority. We treat every person with sensitivity, compassion, and respect while working relentlessly to pursue justice on their behalf.
Dog attacks can occur in many situations, including:
- Public parks, trails, or sidewalks
- Inside a neighbour’s or friend’s home
- At a rental property
- While walking or cycling
- When visiting a business or public space
In many cases, these incidents are preventable and occur because an owner failed to properly restrain, control, or train their dog.
Dog Attacks Are Often the Result of Negligence
Pet owners and property owners have a legal responsibility to take reasonable steps to prevent harm. Dog bites commonly occur due to:
- Failure to use a leash or proper restraint
- Inadequate fencing or open gates
- Prior aggressive behaviour that was ignored
- A dog being left unsupervised with children
- Violation of municipal bylaws
Many attacks happen suddenly and without warning. Victims may not have time to protect themselves and, in some cases, may even attempt to flee, causing further injury.
Children and seniors are especially vulnerable to serious injuries, often suffering face, neck, or hand wounds that may require extensive medical treatment or surgery.
Your Legal Options
There are two primary legal paths after a dog bite incident:
Criminal or Bylaw Proceedings:
Depending on the severity, authorities may investigate the dog and its owner for violations of local bylaws or criminal negligence. The purpose is to ensure public safety and prevent future attacks. This process is controlled by law enforcement or animal control authorities.
Civil Claim for Compensation:
A civil claim allows you, as the victim, to seek financial compensation for your injuries, losses, and suffering. This is where Hanson Kohan Lawyers can help you take back control and hold the responsible party accountable.
The dog owner — and in some situations a landlord or property owner — may be legally and financially responsible for your injuries.
Proving Liability
Under British Columbia law, a dog owner may be liable if they knew or should have known their dog posed a risk, or if they failed to act responsibly to prevent harm.
Liability may be established if:
- The dog had a history of aggression
- The owner failed to restrain the dog properly
- Local bylaws were not followed
- The attack occurred on the owner’s property or in a public place
- Reasonable precautions were not taken
Although financial compensation cannot undo the trauma you experienced, it can help pay for your recovery and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Our lawyers will work diligently to gather evidence, review medical records, interview witnesses, and build a strong case aimed at recovering the maximum amount of compensation available to you.
When the Defendant Is an Institution, the Case Is Different
When a dog bite claim involves an institution – such as a business, landlord, property management company, or employer – the case can become more complex. These claims may involve multiple parties, layered responsibilities, and experienced defence teams that influence how claims are handled.
At Hanson Kohan Lawyers, we approach these cases with careful strategy and attention to detail. We intentionally limit our caseload so you have direct access to your lawyer and a legal approach tailored to your specific situation.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
Legal action after a dog attack may feel overwhelming — especially while you are trying to heal. With the right lawyer on your side, the process becomes more manageable.
Compensation can help cover medical expenses, emotional healing, lost income, therapy, and long-term care. More importantly, it helps restore your sense of justice and personal power.
Jim Hanson and his legal team will fight on your behalf to ensure you are not left to carry the burden alone. We take the time to understand you, your injuries, and your individual circumstances, while providing personal attention every step of the way.
Our goal is for you to feel supported, informed, and confident as we guide you through the legal process.
We Stand With You
Here’s how our clients describe their experience working with us:
‘I am really pleased about my experience working with the Hanson Kohan team. Communication was always friendly, professional and prompt. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.’ – NB
‘I had the pleasure to be legally represented by Hanson Kohan, who are incredibly knowledgeable, professional and compassionate. It was not easy to understand the legal process at first, but everything was explained clearly and effectively. I felt supported and confident knowing they were on my side.’ – CP
How Does Compensation Work?
Hanson Kohan Lawyers has extensive experience handling the full range of personal injury claims. We may be able to help you recover damages for:
Protect Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, contact Hanson Kohan Lawyers today by calling (604)984-7555 or by completing our confidential online form to arrange your free, no-obligation consultation.
We are proud to serve dog bite victims throughout British Columbia and are ready to stand by your side.
