Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friend, but often the relationship with a canine proves to be harmful. Every year, millions of people are bitten by dogs. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in five of those who are bitten by dogs require medical attention for their dog bite injuries. The latest statistic shows that in 2006, over 31,000 dog bite victims underwent reconstructive surgery.
Children are most often the victims of vicious dog attacks. The rate of dog bite injuries is the greatest among the age group, 5 to 9 years. Research has shown that children are also more likely to require medical attention for dog bites than adults.
Many children do not know the warning signs that a dog gives before it bites and therefore they are not prepared to prevent an attack. Certain dangerous dog breeds are considered to be more prone to attack, but any canine has the potential to inflict serious injuries on a child, even the family dog. Dogs bite when they are afraid, territorial, sick or aggressive by nature, among other reasons.
In some circumstances, the dog’s owner can be held responsible for a child’s injury. If your child has been attacked by a dog, you should contact a Massachusetts personal injury lawyer immediately. Contact Kiley Law Group, LLP at 978-474-8670 or 800-410-2769 for a free legal consultation.
