Potential Injuries You Could Sustain Due to a Dog Bite

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Dogs are considered man’s best friend, but there’s no denying that they can be capable of serious harm when they bite. If you’re one of the 4.5 million people that fall victim to dog bites each year and need help filing a dog bite injury claim, speak with an experienced attorney.

What type of injuries can occur as a result of a dog bite?

Puncture wounds

A puncture wound from a dog bite occurs when a dog’s teeth penetrate through the skin and underlying tissue. These wounds can be small or large, but they often appear deep and narrow, making them challenging to clean and heal.

The main concern with these puncture wounds is the risk of infection. The bacteria in a dog’s mouth can easily transfer to the wound and cause an infection such as tetanus or rabies.

Lacerations

Lacerations are deep cuts or tears in the skin, which happen when a dog bites and then pulls away. Lacerations can result in heavy bleeding and require immediate medical attention. If left untreated, they can cause permanent scars or disfigurement, so it’s vital to see a doctor right away if you get a dog bite.

Broken bones

Believe it or not, dogs have powerful jaws that are capable of significant force, and a dog bite can lead to broken bones. Children are more prone to suffering bone fractures in their hands, arms, and legs from dog bites than adults.

Infections

Dog bites can easily become infected due to the bacteria present in a dog’s mouth. The most common infections include tetanus, rabies, and Capnocytophaga bacteria. These infections can bring about severe health issues and may even be fatal if left untreated.

Nerve damage

A dog bite can cause nerve damage, resulting in pain, numbness, or paralysis. Imagine not being able to move your finger or experiencing constant acute pain in one of your limbs. Nerve damage can happen due to the pressure exerted by a dog’s jaws or the tearing of the skin and muscle tissue.

Emotional trauma

Being attacked by a dog can cause emotional trauma as well, which can last long after the physical injuries have healed. Victims may experience stress and anxiety, depression, or trauma (PTSD).

Filing a dog bite injury claim

If you or your loved one becomes a victim of a dog bite, it is very important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Once you have received treatment for your injuries, you’ll then want to consult a personal injury attorney. Filing a dog bite injury claim can help you recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

In the United States, dog owners are held liable for their pet’s actions. The laws regarding dog bites may vary depending on the state, but most states have strict liability laws, making dog owners responsible for any injuries their pets cause. In some cases, landlords and property owners may also be held liable if they allowed a dangerous dog on their premises.

To file a dog bite injury claim, you need to provide evidence to prove that the dog owner was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. This evidence may include witness statements, medical records, photographs of your injuries, and any other relevant documents.

Conclusion

Dog bites can cause severe injury, both physically and emotionally. That’s why one of the first things you need to do if you experience one is to consult a personal injury attorney. It is crucial to hold dog owners accountable for their pets’ actions and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.