Dog Bite Injuries
Every year roughly 800,000 people seek medical treatment for dog bite injuries across the U.S., and nearly half of those victims require emergency room care. Most dog attack victims are children, and nearly half of all children attacked by dogs are bitten in the face. Sadly, these are only the reported attacks, many more dog bites slip through the cracks each year.
Animals are a big responsibility, and if dog owners fail to take the care of their animals, it could lead to vicious behavior. Additionally, when pet owners do not properly restrain or leash their pets, they can cause grave, irreparable harm to other animals and people.
If you or someone you love was injured in a dog attack, our attorneys can help. We have the experience and skill necessary to represent your case and advocate for your legal rights. At The Potter Law Firm, we know how traumatic a dog attack can be, and it is our goal to make the legal process as simple and effective as possible so you and your family can focus on healing.
DOG BITE INJURIES
When a dogs attack a people, they may do so without warning, which can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening injuries. Depending on the type of dog that attacks you, a single bite could fracture bones or tear muscles. Some breeds have extraordinarily powerful jaws that lock down once they bite, making them nearly impossible to fight off. Or, even seemingly harmless or small dogs can leave bite or scratch viciously, causing punctures and lacerations that may leave a victim scarred.
Common dog bite injuries include:
- Lacerations or puncture wounds
- Bone fractures or breaks
Rabies - Infections
- Nerve damage
- Sever scaring or disfigurement
- Death
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?
The most important thing to do when pursing legal action for a dog bite is to establish who is liable for your injuries. In any situation where the dog has an owner, the liability will almost always, at least partially, land on the pet owner’s shoulders. The area where the attack took place is also vital in proving liability. On public property, for example, all owners must keep their dogs leashed, and if an illegally unrestrained dog attacks you, the owner is liable. Take note of all of these details, and anything else you remember from your attack, and relay all information to your lawyer.
YOUR NEXT STEPS
After a dog attacks, make sure you protect yourself both physically and legally. First, make sure you are no longer in danger of another dog attack. Either ask the owner to restrain their dog, or move to a safe area where the dog cannot reach you. If you do not need emergency medical attention, take a photo of the dog that attacked you and write down the contact information of the owner. If there is no owner present, try to remember if the animal had a collar, and what it looked like. Look around for any witnesses to your attack, and ask for their contact information as well. Ask them what they saw and take notes. Write down any other pertinent information about the attack while it’s still fresh on your mind because after the adrenaline wears off, you may forget the details.
Next, seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine and your injuries seem minor, see your physician and keep a copy of all documentation for your records. Next, notify Animal Control of the attack, or the police department, and file an official report. Once the initial work is finished, contact your dog bite attorney to begin building your case.
Contact Potter & Marks to schedule a free consultation.