Dog bites can happen at any time of the year. However, with the arrival of spring and more people and animals being outside, the possibility of becoming a dog bite victim increases.
While dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend, not all dogs are friendly. And even a previously friendly dog can cause serious injuries to an adult or child if the dog inflicts a bite or knocks a person over.
For example, the local news recently reported that a Gadsden County woman was attacked by two dogs in her neighborhood. The injured woman was found by a couple who was passing by the woman’s yard who noticed the woman was lying face down in her front yard with two dogs hovering over her. When the police responded, they said that the dogs had torn the woman’s clothing to shreds and bitten her in the back of her thigh, arm pits, stomach, and rib case. The police had to spray the aggressive dogs with mace to get them away from the woman. One of the dogs was taken to the animal shelter for testing, while the other dog was shot when it growled at the deputies and showed aggressive behavior.
Dog Bite Injuries
Unfortunately, vicious dog bites are not uncommon. Each year, more than 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs. Of these, more than 800,000 require medical attention.
Of the one in five people who require medical treatment for a dog bite, over half are children. The second most frequent dog bite victims are senior citizens or the elderly.
When a dog bites an individual, the bite itself can yield between 150-450 pounds of pressure per square inch, depending on the type of dog and the individual nature of the particular animal. Not surprisingly, this amount of force can easily puncture or tear the individual’s flesh. It also can cause crush injuries to the muscles, nerves, ligaments, tendons, and bones, depending on where the bite or bites occur.
Following a dog bite, experts recommend that the skin be thoroughly cleaned and irrigated, with any significantly damaged area being removed if necessary. Follow-up medical care also is often required.
If the injury is deep, surgery may be necessary. This is the case in approximately 1-3 percent of dog bite injuries. The medical services of a specialist, such as a plastic surgeon, may be necessary, especially if there are injuries to the head, neck, or face (such as the lips, which is a common bite area).
Another significant concern with dog bites is the risk of infection following the bite. These infections can sometimes be very serious, such as with a systemic infection. Bite victims also typically require a tetanus toxoid shot (tetanus shot).
On top of physical injuries, it is well-documented that individuals who suffer dog bites often suffer emotional damage that can last a life-time.
Tallahassee Legal Help For Victims Of Dog Bite Injuries
If you or your child has been the victim of a dog bite, you may be wondering what your legal options are to recover for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and psychological trauma. The Tallahassee and Southern Georgia personal injury attorneys at Fasig & Brooks can explain your rights and help you obtain the financial compensation you deserve. Call us today at (850) 222-3232 or use our online contact form to arrange for a free consultation to talk about your situation.
