Dog Bites Leave Physical And Emotional Scars
Dogs are a man’s best friend, but sometimes their natural instincts can make them dangerous. More than 4.5 million people are bit by dogs every year, with 50 percent of the dog bite victims being children. Dog bites can range in severity from small scratches to serious injuries that require emergency medical treatment. An average of 17 percent of documented dog bite attacks require medical care according to a study released by the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Dog bite attacks are a traumatic event, especially for young children. Dog bite attacks can result in a variety of serious injuries including:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Damage to the nervous system
- Risk of contracting an infection
- Psychological trauma
Seeking Maximum Compensation For Dog Bite Victims
Pet owners bear the responsibility of not only looking after their pet’s well-being but also ensuring the safety of people that come into contact with the animal. If the dog is not confined and it bites you, either on or outside of the owner’s property, the owner of that dog is responsible for all damages and injuries caused by the animal. In most circumstances the law holds the dog owner responsible for all the pet’s actions even if a dog bite was accidental and playful in nature.
Compensation for dog bite injuries often lie in the dog owner’s responsibilities. However, charges don’t always come out of the owner’s pocketbook. Oftentimes, the homeowners insurance or renters insurance will provide compensation to the victim for injuries incurred.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, you should not hesitate to talk to an attorney. Since the law limits the amount of time allowed to file a personal injury claim, it is important to speak with an experienced lawyer right away.
If you have suffered a dog bite injury, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may treat your wound with stitches, prescribe a regiment of medication, or administer a rabies shot. Be sure to ask for copies of all your medical records, as it is important when filing a dog bite injury claim. Be sure to find out the following information:
- Who is the owner of the dog
- Where did the dog bite attack take place
- Who is dog owner’s insurance company
- What injuries were suffered
- Cost of medical bills
- Documentation of lost income from missing work
The Advocate You Need In Dog Bite Injury Claims
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, I, Jeff Pheffer, have a thorough understanding of dog bite laws, and will provide you with crucial legal assistance in your time of need. I can ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the highest possible compensation for your injury. Call my Los Angeles office at 310-909-7801 or send an email with details about your injuries and legal needs.