Getting bitten by a dog while delivering a burrito should not be a part of your job description. But if you drive for Uber Eats, DoorDash, Postmates, or Instacart in Los Angeles, this is a very real risk. So what happens next? Who’s on the hook for your medical bills, lost wages, or even permanent injuries?
Here’s the brutal truth: insurance companies will try to make you believe no one’s responsible but you. That’s why if you’re injured, the first call you make should be to a dog bite lawyer who knows exactly how to fight back. If you’re searching for the most experienced dog bite lawyer in Los Angeles, you’re already on the right track. Schedule An Appointment | Send Us a Message | Or Call Now!
Dog Bites and Delivery Apps: A Growing Risk in LA
According to the US Postal Service, in 2023, Los Angeles had the highest number of reported dog attacks on USPS employees, with 65 incidents, placing it at the top of the nation’s rankings.
With more people ordering food and groceries online than ever before, independent contractors are at increasing risk—yet many of them don’t even realize they’re not covered by traditional workers’ comp.
Let’s break this down.
Are You Covered If You’re Bitten by a Dog on the Job?
Here’s where it gets complicated: most food delivery drivers are independent contractors, not employees. That means DoorDash or Uber likely won’t pay your medical bills—and they’ll remind you of that real quick.
But don’t panic.
You May Still Be Entitled to Compensation From:
- The dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance
- A renter’s insurance policy
- A third-party premises liability claim
- The app’s limited occupational accident policy (if available)
A skilled dog bite attorney in California can identify every path to compensation. If you were attacked while delivering in an apartment complex, you might even have a claim against the landlord or property manager for failing to maintain a safe environment. If that’s the case, hiring a dog bite lawyer becomes even more crucial to maximize your recovery.
Red Flags to Watch Out For After a Dog Attack
Insurance companies (including the dog owner’s) are not your friends.
After a bite, here’s what they don’t want you to know:
- They may try to record your statement and twist your words to deny your claim.
- They often downplay emotional trauma or long-term scarring.
- They may push a lowball settlement hoping you’ll take it and go away.
If any of this sounds familiar, stop talking and call a Los Angeles dog bite lawyer immediately. Your dog bite lawyer will know how to deal with these tactics.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite While Working Delivery
If you’ve been bitten while on the job, here’s what you need to do within hours of the attack:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Even minor bites can get infected. Learn more from CDC guidelines on dog bites.
- Report the bite to local animal control. This creates an official record.
- Take photos of your injuries and the location. Evidence disappears fast.
- Get the dog owner’s contact info. Name, address, and insurance if possible.
- Contact a dog attack injury attorney before speaking to any insurance adjusters.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney for Dog Bites
Navigating a dog bite claim as a delivery driver is a legal minefield. Liability gets fuzzy. Apps dodge responsibility. Insurance companies play hardball.
But here’s the deal: a top-rated personal injury attorney for dog bites knows how to cut through the nonsense.
At Westside Injury Lawyers, we go to bat for delivery workers across Los Angeles. Whether you were attacked in Beverly Hills, Koreatown, or Echo Park, our team will help you:
- Prove negligence by the dog owner
- Calculate full damages including emotional trauma
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
- Take your case to court if necessary
You shouldn’t have to choose between healing and getting paid. Trust an experienced dog bite lawyer to lead the charge.
Call a Dog Bite Lawyer Who Fights for Delivery Drivers
At Westside Injury Lawyers, we don’t just handle dog bites. We win them.
If you or someone you know was delivering food or packages in LA and got bitten, don’t wait. The longer you delay, the harder it becomes to collect what you deserve.
👉 Call us now for a free case evaluation. We’re here 24/7.
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Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney regarding your unique case.
