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Dog Bite Injuries

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According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.7 million victims are bitten by dogs throughout the country each year. Approximately 20 percent of bite victims suffer injuries serious enough to require medical attention. Children are the most common victims and are more likely to bear brutal wounds. Dog bites can lead to nerve damage, amputations, permanent disfigurement, and even death in severe cases. People are often shocked to discover that most bites involve domesticated dogs, as opposed to stray dogs. Almost 80 percent of bite victims are the dog’s owners or their children, friends, or relatives.  

Why Do Dogs Bite?

Any dog, whether big or small, young or old, can bite. Even the friendliest, cutest, and most playful dogs have bitten people. While dogs bite for various reasons, typically biting is a reaction to something. Dogs can snap because they feel nervous, afraid, or have been startled. When a dog finds itself in a stressful or threatening situation, it may attack to protect itself or its territory. They sometimes bite to defend something precious, such as their puppies, food, or even a favorite toy.

Additionally, canines might bite because they are not feeling well or they are injured. Older dogs can get sick or sore and might want to be left alone. Puppies most often nip while playing around. Although nipping or even biting during playtime might be fun for a puppy, it can be treacherous for the victim. Activities like tug-of-war and wrestling can make canines overly excited, leading to an accidental bite. Although it may not always be possible to predict or prevent a dog bite, exercising caution and commonsense can considerably reduce the risk.  

Crucial Steps To Take After A Dog Attack

If you ever get attacked by a dog, one of your primary concerns should be preventing an acute bacterial or viral infection. To avert infection, our veteran dog bite attorneys recommend taking the following steps:

  1. Thoroughly wash all open wounds and surrounding regions;
  2. After applying antibacterial cream, cover your lacerations with sterile bandages;
  3. Place pressure on the gash to minimize any bleeding;   
  4. Seek immediate medical treatment;
  5. Take pictures and videos of your injuries and, if possible, the attacking dog;
  6. Look for any potential witnesses that may have seen the incident;
  7. Call the police to report the dog bite; and 
  8. Consult with an elite personal injury attorney like Jed Dietrich, Esq.

Contact A Highly Experienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyer In Buffalo, New York

In just over 20 years of practice, Jed Dietrich, Esq. has obtained more than $175 million in verdicts and settlements for clients who were seriously injured. Suppose that a dog attacked you or your child. The Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s battle-tested attorneys have the expertise and know-how to litigate your case effectively. Please call us today at 716-839-3939 or complete our online consultation form to discuss your dog bite injuries in more detail. 

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