Dog bites are a serious public health concern in the United States. Each year, millions of Americans suffer from dog bites, resulting in physical, psychological, and financial damages.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. Of these, nearly 800,000 bites required medical attention. In 2001, the CDC reported that almost 155,000 children, under the age of 14 were treated for dog bite injuries.
With over 68 million pet dogs in the US, the chances that you or a family member will be bitten at some point are high, to say the least.
In addition to the physical pain associated with a dog bite, victims often suffer from anxiety, fear, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These psychological effects can last long after the wound has healed. Victims also commonly face financial hardship due to medical bills, lost wages, and other associated costs.
Texas dog bite lawyers specialize in investigating dog bite injuries, evaluating the circumstances behind the incident, and finding justice for those injured.
What To Do if a Dog Bites You
If you are bitten by a dog, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if at first, the bite doesn’t appear to be severe. Here are some additional steps to take if you are attacked by a dog:
- Clean the wound. Rinse the wound with clean water and soap, and pat it dry. Do not scrub the wound, as this can cause further damage.
- Apply antibiotic ointment. Apply a thin layer of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the wound. This will help prevent infection.
- Use a cold compress. Place a cold, wet cloth or a cold pack on the wound to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Identify the dog. If possible, try to identify the dog that bit you and the owner. This will help determine if the dog has been vaccinated against rabies.
- Report the bite. File a police report or report the dog to animal control.
- Seek medical attention. Visit your doctor or a hospital emergency room as soon as possible. Your doctor will likely give you a tetanus shot and may prescribe antibiotics.
- Contact a dog bite attorney. Follow the instructions your doctor gives you for wound care and follow-up visits. Make sure to keep all appointments and take all medications as prescribed.
It is important to take dog bites seriously, as they can lead to life-threatening complications. By taking quick action after a dog bite injury, you can protect your health and ensure your right to compensation for your pain and suffering is preserved during the healing process.
Types of Dog Bite Injuries
When it comes to dog bites, the severity of the injury can range from minor to severe. While it’s true that all dog bites should be taken seriously, you should understand the different types of injuries that can occur and the treatments required.
Minor Injuries
Minor injuries are those that don’t require medical treatment and can be treated at home. These types of injuries include minor cuts and scrapes, as well as bruising and swelling. Although a minor injury may not be as physically damaging, psychological trauma may last for some time.
Puncture Wounds
Puncture wounds are more serious than minor injuries, as they can cause severe pain, and could damage tissue and muscle. These types of wounds can be especially dangerous, as they can introduce bacteria or other pathogens into the body, and should be treated by a doctor as soon as possible.
Avulsion Injuries
Avulsion injuries occur when the dog’s bite is so strong that it rips away a portion of the skin or underlying tissue. This type of injury tends to be painful and can cause severe bleeding. Avulsion injuries should be treated immediately by a doctor, who may need to stitch the wound closed. These types of bites cause permanent scarring and can lead to life-altering suffering.
Infection
Infection can occur after any type of dog bite, as there is always a risk of bacteria entering the wound. This type of injury should be treated by a doctor who can prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Infections can lead to other health complications that could take years to resolve.
Understanding the different types of injuries occurring from dog bites provides insight into the amount of compensation you could obtain for your personal injuries. Contact the dog bite lawyers at the Francis Firm immediately after an animal attack for a free case evaluation and consultation. Please contact us online or call (817) 396-7954 today to learn how to protect your rights as a dog bite victim.
What Is Your Recourse Against a Dog Owner After a Bite?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be questioning what’s your recourse against the dog’s owner. Depending on the state you live in, your options may vary, but all states recognize a victim’s right to seek compensation for damages resulting from a bite. Our Texas personal injury attorneys are ready to help you navigate the claim process.
In most states, the first step is filing a complaint with the local animal control office. This complaint should include information about the dog, its owner, the location of the bite, and any medical treatment required. Animal control officers will investigate the matter and determine if the dog is a potential threat to the community. If they determine the dog is dangerous, they may take steps to remove it from the home and possibly fine the owner.
In Texas, the state does not have a statute that specifically spells out a dog owner’s civil liability for dog bite injuries. Rather, Texas is a negligence or “one bite rule” state for personal injury cases stemming from canine attacks.
In some cases, the dog’s owner may be charged with criminal liability if it was known in advance that the animal was aggressive. A dog owner may also be held negligent if they fail to control the dog under reasonable circumstances to prevent a bite. In Texas, personal injury law is clear, a victim of a dog bite has the right to take action against the owner. If you or a family member has been attacked by a dog, contact us or give us a call at 817-396-7933 for a confidential consultation on your rights as a victim and how you might secure compensation for your injuries.