In August 2014, an 18-month old Massachusetts boy was sent to the hospital after being attacked by the family dog while they were staying in Florida. Reports state that he suffered “significant facial wounds” and the dog in question had not before shown aggressive behavior towards the boy. Summer is a great time to be outside, take walks, spend time in the yard, and generally enjoy the weather. Dogs are often times not excluded when it comes to this; they can appreciate those simple joys as much as their owners can. However, this could mean that there is a higher risk for dog bites. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year.
Dog Bite Statistics
Among the 4.5 million dog bites estimated by the CDC, approximately 885,000 require medical attention, and half of those are children. The age range most at risk are those between the ages of five and nine. Adult men are also more likely than adult women to be bitten by dogs. Many dog bites can be prevented. Teach your friends and family, especially children, not to play with dogs unless under supervision by the owner. Some experts say that if a dog does charge, do not run or scream; those actions may agitate the dog further. Instead roll into a ball on the ground and protect your head and vital organs or stand tall and still “like a tree.” Also, be forewarned, the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that most dog bites are not the result of random attacks in public places, but rather as a result of aggressive dogs (such as dogs trained to be guard dogs) escaping from the yard or visitors on the property of the dog’s owner.
Injuries from Dog Bites
Injuries as a result from dog bites can vary from very minor, needing only antibiotic ointment and a band-aid, to very serious injuries that can lead to surgery or even death. Dog bites can leave permanent scarring and can cause muscle and nerve damage. Injuries to small children can be far more severe than bites to adults as they are not as able to defend themselves and can be no match for a large dog. However, adults are also susceptible to serious injuries caused by dog bites. A woman in Ogden, Utah suffered a Rottweiler bite in July 2012 that resulted in several surgeries and the inability to return to work, even more than two years later. This summer, a judge in Utah ruled in her favor in a lawsuit against the owners of the dog that bit her.
Consult an Experienced Attorney
If you or a loved one has experienced a serious injury from a dog bite, call Attorney Neil Burns for a free consultation. He has represented clients since 1985, working aggressively to help them obtain the damages they deserve. The initial consultation is always free and there is no cost to you until your case is successful!!