Looking at most dog bite cases
As injury attorneys, one of the most difficult cases for us to handle is dog bite cases. If you or a loved one has ever been injured in a dog bite attack, then you know how emotionally draining and frightening they can be. This is large since the most likely victims of a canine attack are young children. These tragic cases often make local news headlines because the results can be shocking. As unfortunate as a dog bite case is, they are an important reminder that anything can happen when animals are involved.
Many Utahans have pets of their own, and a large part of the population loves dogs. After all, they are known as man’s best friend for a reason. However, even the friendliest family dog can be unpredictable and can cause some severe injuries. This is especially true when the dog is put in a situation that they are generally not used to. For example, if young children are visiting or have wandered into their yard. There are many reasons that children are the most likely victims of dog bites. We will cover this topic in greater detail in the future, but here are some key elements.
Why children are likely victims
- Children often look like smaller prey. They usually run and will enact a chase instinct in the dog.
- Children are more likely to stress an animal out by imposing on their personal space. This includes bringing their face right up to the dogs and pulling the animal’s hair or tail.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Because these injuries are relatively common, we want to discuss the critical steps that should be taken if you or a loved one is ever involved in a dog bite situation. After years of experience, our Utah dog bite lawyers have a few items to remember should this unfortunate situation ever happen.
What to do after a dog bite incident
- The first and most important item is to get immediate medical attention either at a doctor’s office, hospital emergency, or urgent care clinic. Depending on the severity of the wounds, they can be initially treated at your home. In other cases, 911 should be called to address the injuries and transport of the injured person. Prompt medical attention will help limit the effects the injuries have on the body and prevent infection.
- You should report the attack to the police or the animal control agency in your city or county. Ensure that you tell the authorities anything you know about the dog, including the name and address of the dog’s owner. Often enough, the dog will be quarantined until deemed safe for the public by the agency.
- Document your injury through photographs immediately after the bite and throughout the healing process.
- Contact an experienced dog bite attorney before your statute of limitations to see if you are entitled to a settlement. Even if the dog owner’s insurance attempts to contact you directly, the adjuster will try to pay you out to get you to sign away legal rights to file a claim against them. Don’t make the mistake of signing anything until you have had a personal injury consultation with a trusted law firm.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. This website contains general information relating to areas of law familiar to our firm. The information should not be construed as legal advice or other professional advice. You should not rely on the contents of this website as such. Participation on this website does not create any kind of attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice or representation, please contact my office, and I would be pleased to discuss your case with you and see if my firm can help.
