Horrific Dog Attack in Northern California Caught on Camera

A terrifying dog attack was caught on camera in Half Moon Bay in Northern California. According to an ABC news report, neighbors say the owner of the dog is a man who has terrorized their community for years. Several families even have restraining orders but say nothing has been done. The incident occurred when Michelle Balbi along with her son, Luca, was taking a walk with their dog.

Dog Bite Injuries

That’s when the neighbor’s dog attacked them. Michelle Balbi said she began recording with her phone because she knew the neighbor’s dog had a history of being aggressive. Within seconds, the dog was running toward them. She dropped the phone, but on the video she can be heard screaming for help. Balbi said the dog bit her finger and scratched her right calf. The dog then turned on the Balbis’ dog and pinned it down. The neighbor who owned the attacking dog was laughing as he was watching the attack, according to the Balbis.

Eventually, they said, he grabbed his dog and pulled it away without offering an apology. Michelle Balbi said she and her son are shaken but not surprised because of the neighbor’s history of terrorizing the neighborhood. She said her family is one of six to have a restraining order against the man. The Balbis and their neighbors say they are all terrified for their safety and are pleading with the authorities to do something about the situation.

Laws and Liability Issues

Under California’s strict liability statute, dog owners are responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused by their pets. This is true regardless of whether the animal attack occurred at a public or private location, or whether or not the dog has a prior history of attacks. In this particular case, it appears that the dog (and its owner) had a history of intimidating and even “terrorizing neighbors,” so much so that residents obtained restraining orders.

In such cases, injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, cost of cosmetic surgery, psychological counseling, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced dog bite lawyer will be able to advise victims in such cases regarding their legal rights and options.

Source: https://6abc.com/terrifying-dog-attack-caught-on-camera-in-california/5377759/