Dogs are often referred to as ‘man’s best friend,’ but not all interactions with them are pleasant. Dog bites can cause significant injuries and, in rare situations, may also result in legal ramifications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 4.5 million people are injured yearly by dog bites. Twenty percent of these persons require emergency medical care or hospitalization for their injuries.
In this post, we will look at different forms of dog bites and how a lawyer can help you if a dog has bitten you or a loved one.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, seeking legal counsel may be critical for several reasons. To assess liability, a lawyer can analyze the circumstances surrounding the dog bite. This involves determining whether or not the owner was careless or at fault. Since dog bite laws differ by state, a competent lawyer will be familiar with the local rules and regulations that pertain to your situation.
If you are unable to reach an amicable settlement through discussions your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court. A lawyer will also seek to safeguard your rights and prevent you from being exploited during the legal procedure.
Kinds of Dog Bites
The severity and circumstances of dog bites may vary. Understanding the various forms of dog bites is critical for determining potential legal consequences and getting the right medical and legal aid.
Provoked bites occur when a dog reacts aggressively in response to a provocation. This could include taunting, hitting, or other types of mistreatment by other individuals.
Unprovoked bites take place when there is no apparent provocation. A dog may attack out of fear, territorial tendencies, or other reasons in some circumstances.
Territorial bites are when dogs bite someone who encroaches on their perceived territory, which could also include their owner’s property.
Nipping or play bites are common in puppies and usually occur during play. They are less likely to cause significant harm, even though in certain cases, if not treated properly could be harmful.
Defensive bites are usually to protect itself when a dog feels threatened or surrounded, it may resort to being defensive and then bite.
Predatory bites are caused when some dogs have a high predatory drive, and may bite while chasing smaller animals.
Also , it is repeatedly seen that when a dog is not able to attack the cause of its frustration (such as another dog , it turns its aggression towards the person next to them.
What Kind of Physical Injuries Can They Cause?
Facial: Face attacks are when you are knocked down or are in close proximity to the dog’s face before the assault. Facial injuries can disfigure you and impede your vision, speech and even your ability to eat. Lacerations, which can create facial scars are the most common injuries. Lip and ear injuries can result in tissue loss in these areas. Plastic surgery may be required in rare circumstances to replace missing or damaged tissue and restore a normal appearance.
Infections: Sevevral common diseases can be contracted through dog bites, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the the United States. Diseases liek rabies, tetanus, Pasteurella etc occue when when bacteira from the dog’s mouth enters the wounds. Accodiring to the CDC, an estimated 18% of dog bites become infceted, and these llnesses can result in Pain, swelling and Fever. While left untreated, it can be lethal.
What Is the Mental Harm Caused By Dog Bites?
The trauma of a dog attack can generate lifelong anxiety, particularly in young children. A dog bite survivor may acquire post-traumatic stress disoirder (PTSD) following the incident, and seeing similar dogs may exacerbate this mental state. Disfigurement is also a key cause of emotional trauma following an attack. If your scar are visibl, you may become reclusive and avoid going out in public, or you may go to great lengths to conceal them. Depression is also a common side effect of severe dog bite disfigurement.
Finally
Dog bites injuries can have serious physical and emotional consequences. If you or any loved one has been a vicim, reach out to a qulaified attorney who specializes in personal injury cases and be well on your way to recovery.
