Buffalo Personal Injury Lawyer News5 Tips To Prevent Dog Bites And Dog Attacks
More than 4.7 million victims suffer dog bites throughout the United States each year. You may be surprised to learn that most of these bites involve domesticated rather than stray dogs. According to recent statistics, dog breeds like Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Wolf-Dog Hybrids, and Rottweilers are most likely to bite. However, the breed is not the sole factor in determining whether a dog will bite you. Hyperactive canines that are not adequately socialized and do not get enough exercise have the highest risk of biting.
In a recent year alone, approximately 20 percent of dog bite injuries were severe enough for the victims to require emergency medical treatment. Additionally, statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that over a recent ten-year period, there were an average of 43 dog bite fatalities per year. Dog bites are notorious for causing devastating injuries, chronic health issues, and grave psychological wounds, especially in young children.
How To Avoid Being Bit
Dogs tend to bite victims for various reasons. Avoiding dangerous situations that could result in a dog bite is crucial. Although it is not possible to prevent dog attacks, there are several ways to substantially reduce your risk of being bitten. Please see the Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s battle-tested dog bite attorneys’ tips below:
- Avoid Getting Close: If you see an unrestrained canine, calmly start walking in a different direction instead of approaching it.
- Don’t Run Away: Canines love to chase. It would be best if you always faced the dog. Instead of turning around and running away, you should walk backward slowly if it is safe to do so.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Hostile canines typically stare down their victims before attacking. Some dogs take eye contact as a challenge.
- Be Cautious: About 25 percent of all fatal dog attacks are inflicted by leashed dogs. Even the sturdiest leashes and harnesses can come loose. Furthermore, you only know a chain’s length when it is put to the test.
- Do Not Disturb: Avoid disrupting canines, especially when sleeping or eating. They are more likely to get upset or startled in these instances.
While applying the above tips and common sense will considerably reduce your risk of being attacked, some dog bites are unavoidable. If you or a loved one have suffered severe injuries or worse from a dog bite, please get in touch with the Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s top rated personal injury lawyers. Jed Dietrich, Esq. and his passionate team will fight to bring you the best possible result. Please call us at 716-839-3939 or fill out our online consultation form to discuss your legal options.