Dog Bite Liability Information

A startling number of Americans are affected by dog bites each year, especially children under the age of 15. According to the American Humane Association, 4.5 million people suffer dog bite injuries each year and 800,000 of those victims must seek medical treatment.

Dog Bite Statistics
Children are far more likely to be bitten by a dog than adults. The American Humane Association estimates that 70 percent of all dog bites occur in children under the age of 15. Despite the vast number of dog bites each year, most dog attacks are not fatal. Even if there was no fatality, contact a dog bite attorney in your area.   

Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries run the gamut from minor puncture wounds to severe lacerations and bone fractures, according to DogBiteLaw.com. Dogs bites transmit rabies and skin infections. Dog bites to the face may require plastic surgery. Children can suffer emotional trauma from dog bites. Dr. Stanley Goodman finds that many victims of dog attacks show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dog Bite Liability
Each state has its own laws regarding dog bite liability. Most states, according to Rebecca Wisch at the Detroit College of Law, have “strict liability” dog bite laws, meaning that the dog owner is liable for any injuries, even if they didn’t have prior knowledge of their dog’s aggressive tendencies. To find out your local law, contact a dog bite attorney or personal injury attorney. However, dog owners are usually not held liable for dog bites if the victim was intentionally abusing or tormenting the dog.   Since insurance companies paid out over $356 million in dog bite claims in 2007, more insurers are requiring dog bite liability waivers for dog owners, according to the Insurance Information Institute.  

How to Prevent Dog Bites
Many dog bites and dog bite injuries can be prevented. Never leave your child unattended with a dog, and make sure your dog is properly trained. Center for Disease Control also recommends spaying or neutering your dog to prevent aggressive tendencies. Do not chain your dog. To aid in dog bite prevention, the Humane Society warns that dog owners should not play aggressive games with their dogs or encourage their dog to chase people.  

What to Do During a Dog Attack
If you suspect a dog may attack you, the Humane Society recommends staying calm and being as still as possible; never run, as that will encourage the dog to chase you. Don’t make eye contact with the dog, and if he does start biting you, curl into a ball and use your arms to protect your face. The Humane Society also recommends trying to put your purse or coat into the dog’s mouth. 

In the event of a dog attack, contact a dog bite attorney right away. Many dog bite attorneys specialize in dog bites, and some attorneys dedicate their entire practice to assisting dog bite victims.  If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack, select the Find An Attorney button above and get connected with an attorney in your area.