Dogs bite over 4.5 million people each year in the United States, making this a significant public health concern in the country. The owner of the dog is often to blame for many of these attacks because of their negligent behavior. One of the most common reasons for dog bite injury is a careless dog owner.
If you have been bitten by a dog and believe the owner is responsible for your injuries, you may be able to file a claim for personal injury against them. This article will discuss the risks associated with dog bite injuries as well as the liability of owners who are negligent in the event of a personal injury claim. If you have been the victim of a dog bite, we will also offer advice on what steps you should take next.
The Dangers of Dog Bite Injury
Injuries caused by dog bites present their victims with a number of risks. Infection is one of the most significant risks that can occur. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately one in every five people who are bitten by a dog will require medical treatment for the injuries they sustained.
Dog bites are a potential risk factor for several infections, including tetanus, rabies, and bacterial infections. Rabies is a severe disease that frequently results in death, in contrast to the majority of infections that are treatable with antibiotics. If a dog has bitten you, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Scarring is an additional risk associated with injuries caused by dog bites. Dog bites can result in severe lacerations and puncture wounds, both of which can leave permanent scarring. Dog bites have the potential to inflict nerve damage in certain instances. This may result in a loss of sensation in the area that is being affected. If you or a loved one has been the recipient of a dog bite, it is imperative that you seek medical attention.
After receiving medical attention for your wounds, you should think about consulting with a personal injury lawyer about your case. There is a possibility that you will be able to file a claim for personal injury against the dog’s owner.
Negligent Owners In A Dog Bite Attack Claim
If you have been bitten by a dog and believe the owner is responsible for your injuries, you may be able to file a claim for personal injury against them. You will not prevail in your case unless you can demonstrate that the owner acted negligently. The failure to exercise reasonable care in order to avoid an injury that could have been avoided constitutes negligence. To win a case involving a dog bite, you have to demonstrate that the dog’s owner knew or should have known their dog was dangerous.
For instance, if the dog had a track record of biting people, the owner ought to have been aware that the dog posed a threat to the public. You might be able to receive compensation for your injuries if you can demonstrate that the property owner was negligent in some way.
Tips For Dog Bite Victims
You have a few options to protect your legal standing if you have been the victim of a dog bite.
- First and foremost, you should get medical help as soon as possible.
- After receiving medical attention for your wounds, you should document them through photographs as soon as possible. Your injury claim may require evidence, and you may use these photographs.
- You need to make sure that you get the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened.
- The statements that witnesses make can be very helpful in proving your case.
- Last but not least, you should get in touch with a personal injury attorney as soon as you can. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim for damages following an injury caused by a dog bite.
Types Of Damages That May Be Recoverable
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite, you may be entitled to financial compensation for a wide range of other losses. These damages may include financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, as well as damage to personal property. You might also be able to recover punitive damages if the circumstances are right. Damages known as punitive damages are intended to punish the party that was negligent and prevent future negligent behavior.
Conclusion
At San Gabriel Valley, we are aware of the risks associated with dog bite injuries as well as the irresponsible behavior of some dog owners. We have a lot of experience representing clients in dog bite injury cases. A dog has injured if you or someone you know, please call us at (626) 602-9483 for a free consultation regarding your legal options.