In the US, there are over 4.5 million dog bites every year. Almost 1 million require medical attention, and approximately 20 children die from injuries yearly. Dog bites are a serious problem that caring citizens need to address.
This article will discuss why dogs bite, what types of dogs are most likely to bite, what you can do if a dog bites you, and how you can make an irresponsible owner pay for the damage they have caused.
We will also talk about how negligence on the part of the owner can lead to liability for the owner and how specialist law firms can help get a conviction against them.
Dog bites can cause terrible lasting injuries, including puncture wounds, lacerations, infection, nerve damage, and even death. They are also a leading cause of child injury in the United States.
Dog bites can happen to anyone, but certain groups of people are more likely to be bitten than others.
Children between the ages of five and nine years old are the most likely to be bitten by a dog. The five to nine age group is at risk because they are often unaware of the dangers that dogs pose, and they may approach a dog without understanding how to interact with it appropriately.
Adults over the age of 70 are also at an increased risk of being bitten by a dog – this is because they may have weaker bones and muscles, which makes it more difficult for them to defend themselves if a dog attacks.
The Type of Dogs that Bite
Some species of dogs are more likely to bite than others. Pit bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are the breeds most commonly involved in dog bite incidents. People breed these dogs for their aggressive traits, and they have powerful jaws that can cause severe damage.
Other factors that can increase the likelihood of a dog biting include its sex – whether the dog is male or female (males are more likely to bite than females).
It’s also true that unspayed females are more likely to bite. The most significant factor is whether the dog has received proper socialization and training – often, owners leave animals to their own devices.
The fact is even tiny dogs can bite, causing significant injury, especially to young children or babies.
Suppose you do find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being bitten by a dog. In that case, there are specific steps you should take to ensure your safety and to increase the chance of holding the owner responsible.
Step One: Get Away From the Dog
The first step is to get away from the dog if possible. If you cannot get away, try to protect yourself by covering your face and head with your hands and arms. Once you are out of danger, seek medical attention immediately.
Dog bites can cause serious infections, so it is essential to see a doctor even if the wound does not seem severe.
Step Two: Gather Information
The next step is to get as much information about the dog and the owner as possible. Try to get the name and contact information of the owner and any witnesses who saw the incident. It is also helpful to take pictures of the injuries you sustained and photos of the dog.
Step Three: Get Medical Help Immediately
As we mentioned before, it is vital to seek medical attention after a dog bite, even if the injuries seem minor. Dog bites can cause serious infections, so don’t delay – it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Four: File a Police Report
The fourth step is to file a police report. A report will create a record of the incident and can be helpful if you decide to take legal action against the owner.
A report means that if the dog attacks anyone else, a note is on file with a third party. Evidence like this backs up a claim for compensation going forward.
Step Five: Speak with an Attorney
The fifth and final step is to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to help you understand your rights and options. Dog bite cases can be complex, so it is essential to have someone on your side who knows the legal system and how it works in these cases.
An experienced attorney will also know how to deal with insurance companies and may be able to secure you a settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Bad Dogs Do Not Exist
Bad dogs don’t exist, there are only neglectful and careless owners, and it is those dog owners who need to be held accountable for the actions of their pets. Animals love their owners unconditionally even when they live in horrible conditions; our job as pet lovers is to make sure our furry friends have everything they need to live a happy life.
So while you may be worried about the dog’s welfare, it’s even more critical to stop owners who don’t care about their dog’s welfare from continuing to own animals. Responsible people can prevent dog bites if we all do our part.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about your legal rights and options. Dog bites can cause serious injuries, and it is important to have an attorney on your side who knows how to get the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let a negligent owner get away with putting other people at risk – contact an attorney and stop dog bite injuries from ruining the lives of friends, family members and our community.
