According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each year. Of these millions that are bitten, one in five of them need to seek medical attention. Most dog bite victims are children and the elderly. While any dog can bite, some breeds are more prone to attacking than others. These dog breeds include Chihuahuas, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Cocker Spaniels, and Bull Terriers.
Some people who get bitten or attacked by a dog, may not realize that it could result in a personal injury case. If you or a loved one ever gets attacked by a dog, and are injured as a result of a dog attack, you may need to contact a personal injury attorney. This is especially the case if the owner of the dog that attacked feels they are not responsible for your injuries and refuse to cover medical expenses.
Common Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks
Dog attacks can result in serious injury. Serious dog attack injuries require a trip to the emergency room, where getting stitches, and other types of treatment are necessary. Common injuries from dog attacks include:
- Blood loss caused by deep puncture wounds from a dog's teeth
- Infections caused by bites and scratches
- Permanent scars on the exposed parts of the skin
- Permanent damage to the nerves
If a dog happens to have rabies, serious illness and even death can occur. While rabies in the United States is rare, (only one to three cases a year), it is still something you need to be aware of.
Besides physical pain and trauma, people who get attacked by a dog can be emotionally scarred for life, and some will suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Whether getting treated for physical injuries caused by a dog attack, or therapy for emotional scars, treatment can be expensive.
When a Dog Attack Becomes a Personal Injury Case
All dog owners should realize that they need to be held responsible for their pet's behavior. This means if a dog attacks you and treatment is necessary, the owner should pay your medical bills. If the dog owner will not do this, you might have viable cause for a personal injury case.
If the owner did not have their dog on a leash, and you did nothing to provoke the attack, the owner would most like be considered negligent. If this can be proven, you should be able to be receive appropriate compensation. Contact a personal injury attorney for more assistance.
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