Dog Bite Statistics
Injured as the result of a dog attack? You should not have to pay the medical bills. Dog bite attorneys and
personal injury attorneys are here to help.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 4.7 million people were victims of dog bites in 1994. The American Humane Organization claims dog attacks account for 4.5 million injuries annually and 800,000 of them require medical attention. “Every 40 seconds someone in the United States seeks medical attention for a dog bite-related injury” says the AHO.
Other Dog Bite Statistics
- 24% of dog bite deaths involve unrestrained dogs off of their owners' property.
- 58% of dog bite deaths involved unrestrained dogs on their owners' property.
Children are more likely than adults to be the victim of a dog attack. According to the American Humane Organization, “Children under 15 years of age are the most common victims, making up approximately 70% of all dog bite victims.”
Additionally, according to the Centers for Disease Control, “In 2006, more than 31,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs.”
Injuries/illness range from:
- Wounds
- Infections
- Sepsis
- Tetanus
- Rabies
- Broken bones
- Bruises
- Joint injury
- Psychological trauma
All of these injuries, both physical and psychological, require treatment. Common expenses due to dog bites can come from many different places including:
- Doctor
- Hospital
- Ambulance
- Anesthesiologist
- Psychologist
- Pharmacy
- Insurance rates
The trauma from the attack can last for months and the costs can be enormous. According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites cost insurers $352.6 million in 2007 and this rate is up 10.5% from 2006 .
The toll on the victims can be devastating and debilitating. Sometimes the long term effects won’t be known for months or even years. The lasting effects are not confined to the victim as their family members often suffer as well. Add in time lost from work, and the effects of dog attacks affect us all.
Lasting Effects
- Scars
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Anxiety
- Fear of dogs
- Broken friendships
- Loss of employment, depending on severity of injuries
It is important to address not only the physical wounds but underlying emotional trauma that may exist. In order to address all the effects of a dog attack or bite, the victim should seek proper medical treatment, including a visit with a psychologist or psychiatrist.
If you or a your child have been the victim of an unprovoked dog attack, fill out this short questionnaire and get connected to an experienced dog bite attorney in your area to preserve your rights and ensure you receive proper compensation for your injuries