Aaron Carlson, a 2-year-old boy, was killed in a dog bite incident inside his San Diego home the morning of July 31, 2010. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports the fatal dog attack involving the family's own dog, happened in an upstairs bedroom while the mother was downstairs. Aaron's siblings -- ages 3, 5, and 7 -- may have witnessed the attack, officials say. Animal control officers have taken the dog, a shepherd mix, which had no previously reported problems with aggression. No criminal charges are currently pending regarding this attack.

I offer my deepest condolences to the parents of this child for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. They will be in my prayers.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), nearly 4.5 million people are injured as a result of dog attacks in the Unites States. One in five dog bites results in personal injuries that require medical attention. In 2006, more than 30,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs. Children are most at risk for dog bites and are most likely to be fatally injured in dog attacks, according to CDC reports.

California Dog Bite Law

California has a "strict liability law" when it comes to dog bites. In this particular fatal dog bite case, the parents may face criminal negligence charges if prosecutors find that their negligence caused Aaron's death. If this had happened to a neighbor's child or a visitor to the house, then the dog owners could have been held financially liable for the injuries caused.

California’s Civil Code Section 3342 states: "The owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness."

Liability Issues for Dog Owners

In such cases, injured dog bite victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings, hospitalization, cost of cosmetic surgery and other expenses related to the attack. Injured victims in such cases would be well-advised to consult an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who has a successful track record of holding negligent dog owners liable for their actions.

Do you feel safe leaving your dog with your children?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.