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Dog Bite Attacks Can Really Happen Anywhere
Dog bites are no joke. The immense stress that follows a dog bite injury, along with all the expenses, is something many continue to deal with. Another alarming truth is that dog bites can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time of the day.
Did you know that over 4.5 million Americans get bitten by dogs annually, and around 800,000 of them require medical attention? Half of these victims are children. These alarming statistics prove that getting bitten by a dog is a serious concern, emphasizing the importance of dog bite prevention methods.
Regardless of their size, age, or breed, any dog has the potential to bite when threatened, even those considered the cutest and sweetest. Remember that a dog’s history and behavior, rather than its breed, determine whether it bites or not.
Fortunately, many dog bites can be avoided with proactive measures, whether you’re at home or in your community. By taking steps to address this issue, you can reduce the likelihood of dog bites becoming a problem.
Why Do Dogs Bite?
By identifying the potential reasons behind your dog’s biting behavior, you can pinpoint the root cause and effectively eliminate the issue.
Here are some reasons why dogs bite:
- Reaction to the Environment – Dogs may resort to biting as a response to their surroundings. Stressful situations, fear, or perceived threats can trigger a dog’s aggressive behavior.
- Protecting Valuables – Dogs may bite when safeguarding something valuable, such as their puppies, food, or toys.
- Illness or Discomfort – Aggression in dogs can be linked to illness or discomfort. When a dog is unwell or experiencing discomfort, it may resort to biting as a defensive mechanism.
- Playtime Behavior – Biting and nipping tendencies may emerge during playtime for some dogs.
While any dog has the potential to bite, some breeds have higher aggression rates. Forbes’ statistical analysis reveals which dog breeds are involved in more attacks.
- Pitbull was responsible for 22.5% of bites across all studies.
- Mixed breeds were a close second at 21.2%.
- German Shepherds were the third most dangerous breed, involved in 17.8% of bite incidents.
It’s worth noting that many dogs were bred to act and react in a specific manner. Pitbulls, for example, were sadly raised to be fighting dogs. Because of this knowledge, some people tend to have different attitudes toward specific breeds. It’s important to be aware that most “aggressive” dogs were programmed to be that way by humans.
Dog Bite Facts and Statistics
Dog bite and attack incidents can happen anytime, anywhere. Here are some dog bite statistics and facts you need to know:
- Nearly 1,000 people seek medical attention in hospital emergency rooms due to non-fatal injuries sustained as a result of dog bites every single day.
- As per the Insurance Information Institute, homeowners insurers paid $1,136 million in dog bite and other dog-related liability claims in 2022.
- Nearly 27,000 dog bite victims had reconstructive surgery in 2018.
- In 2019, 48 reported incidents of dog attacks led to the deaths of three victims aged 10 to 18. Among the casualties, 13 were children, and 32 were adults.
- California recorded the highest number of fatalities from dog bites, with nine reported cases.
Common Places Where Dog Bites Can Happen
Dog bites can occur in various settings. It is essential to be vigilant and cautious in the following common places:
- Public Parks – Interactions with unfamiliar dogs in public parks can sometimes lead to unexpected dog bites.
- Residential Neighborhoods – Even in familiar surroundings, encounters with unrestrained dogs can pose a risk, especially if the dog is territorial.
- Friend or Family Homes – Dog bites can occur during visits to friends or family who own dogs, mainly if the dog is unfamiliar or untrained.
- Workplaces – As mentioned earlier, the risk of dog bites has increased for workers who regularly visit clients’ homes. This is especially true when pet owners do not take appropriate precautions.
Common Dog Bite-Related Infections
Dog bites can cause severe infections and diseases, which should not be underestimated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dog bite victims should be especially worried about the following:
- Rabies—A dog infected with the rabies virus can transmit the disease through saliva. Immediate treatment is important if you are bitten by a dog with rabies. Typically, this involves a series of shots. Without prompt treatment, the illness almost invariably leads to death.
- Capnocytophaga – Bacteria known as Capnocytophaga reside in dogs’ mouths and can transmit to humans through bites, scratches, or close contact, sometimes causing serious illnesses like sepsis.
- Pasteurella — More than half of individuals bitten by dogs are exposed to this type of bacteria, which can lead to symptoms such as swelling in the glands and joints and potentially affect mobility.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) – According to the Centers for Disease Control, dogs can be asymptomatic carriers of MRSA, and a bite can cause a person to become infected with one of these dangerous strains of bacteria. This infection may spread to the skin, lungs, and bloodstream and be fatal.
- Tetanus – This bacterial infection, often caused by deep bite wounds, can cause severe muscle spasms. Extreme cases can even cause paralysis or death.
Emotional and Psychological Effects of Dog Bites
Apart from suffering physical injuries, dog bite victims may also struggle emotionally and psychologically. The trauma associated with such an incident can lead to:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – There is a link between the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder and violent dog attacks that leave deep or multiple wounds. Victims may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, leading to PTSD. The fear of dogs and anxiety about future interactions can significantly impact daily life.
- Depression – Coping with the physical and emotional aftermath of a dog bite can lead to depression. Victims may feel isolated, fearful, and overwhelmed by their circumstances.
- Anxiety and Phobias – Victims may develop generalized anxiety or specific phobias related to dogs or particular situations. This can affect their ability to socialize or go about their daily routines.
- Low Self-Esteem – Scarring and disfigurement from dog bites can lower self-esteem. Victims may struggle with body image issues, impacting their self-worth and confidence.
How to Handle a Dog Attack
One can never predict when a dog will attack. While there is no guarantee that a dog will not attack you, you can always take precautions against a possible dog attack.
If a dog becomes aggressive, follow these steps for your safety and health:
- Avoid making eye contact with the dog.
- Command the dog to sit or stay using a firm voice.
- Refrain from raising your hands, as dogs may perceive it as a threat.
- Deter an attack from a small dog by kicking it in the nose or body.
- Repel an attack from a larger dog by punching it in the nose.
- Immediately contact the police.
- Seek medical attention promptly.
California Law on Dog Bites and Attacks
In California, strict liability statutes hold dog owners accountable for their pet’s actions, regardless of previous signs of aggression or owner awareness. California Civil Code Section 3342 imposes accountability on owners for the damages sustained by victims, regardless of the location of the attack. It does not matter if the dog attack happens publicly or legally in a private place, like on the dog owner’s property. There are some exceptions, though, such as when the attack results from cruelty towards the dog or the dog bite victim trespasses on the owner’s property.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Injuries
What Damages Can I Seek in A Dog Bite Case?
If you’ve suffered a dog bite in California, you may be eligible for compensation for various losses, including:
- Medical expenses
Emergency transportation, treatments, hospitalization, surgeries, medication, and medical equipment will be covered. - Cosmetic surgery costs
Dog bites frequently leave scars and disfigurement behind, which can lead to emotional and psychological trauma. As such, scar correction surgery should be part of your compensation claim. - Permanent injuries and disabilities
Some brutal dog attacks cause lifelong injuries or disabilities, so victims should be entitled to just compensation. - Pain and suffering
Dog bite victims may also seek damages for subjective or non-monetary losses, such as physical pain and mental suffering they went through because of these traumatic incidents.
If A Dog Bites You, Is The Owner Liable?
Whether you are a dog owner or a dog bite victim, it is essential to understand California’s strict liability dog bite statute. This law holds dog owners responsible and prevents them from evading liability by claiming ignorance of their dog’s aggressive tendencies.
When Do I Need To File A Claim?
Like all other personal injury claims, dog bite cases must be filed within California’s two-year statute of limitations. Simply put, dog bite victims only have two years from the date of the incident to file their claim.
What Would Happen if A Dog Bites You at Work?
Workplace safety is a must. However, dog bite injuries are becoming more common nowadays. Even workers visiting clients’ homes can become victims of dog attacks. If pet owners fail to take the necessary precautions and their dog bites you while you do your job, you have rights. You can file for workers’ compensation benefits. This is where Arash Law’s workers’ compensation attorneys can help. We will help you understand your rights and legal choices.
What Should You Do if A Dog Attacks?
If a dog attacks you, take these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Wash bite wounds with warm, soapy water immediately and seek medical attention.
- Report the incident to local animal control or the police.
- Gather the dog’s owner and the witnesses’ names and contact information.
- Document your injuries with photographs.
- Preserve any clothing worn during the attack.
- Keep copies of medical bills and related expenses.
- Write a complete description of what happened.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer promptly to explore your legal options.
Why Do I Need a Dog Bite Lawyer?
Dog bite cases can be complex and pose many questions, including:
- Did anyone violate any laws?
- Did the dog exhibit violent or biting tendencies in the past?
- Was the dog bite victim legally on the property, or were they trespassing?
An experienced dog bite personal injury lawyer can assist you throughout the legal process. Your dog bite lawyer will help gather important evidence and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation.
If a dog bite results in severe injuries, your attorney will manage all the necessary records and legal paperwork for your claim, allowing you the necessary time to focus on your recovery. Hiring a lawyer for dog bite cases is highly advisable, particularly if facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
Speak to A Top-Notch California Dog Bite Lawyer Today
Are you seeking legal assistance for injuries from a dog bite? Connect with one of the experienced California dog bite lawyers at Arash Law today! Your physical, emotional, and financial well-being is our top priority. Dial (888) 488-1391, and let us handle the legal aspects while you focus on recovery.
