Boston Dog Bite Lawyers
The Humane Society of the United States reports that there are an estimated 77.5 million dogs in the U.S., according to the results of the 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey.
Approximately 39 percent of all households in the U.S. own at least one dog, with about 67 percent of owners owning one dog; 24 percent owning two dogs; and nine percent owning three or more dogs.
It is not surprising, then, to learn that there are a relatively high number of dog bite attacks every year in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.7 million people are bit by a dog every year. Approximately 800,000 of those bites need medical attention, with 386,000 requiring treatment at a hospital emergency room. On average, 16 people die annually from injuries they have suffered in a dog bite attack. Unfortunately, children between the ages of 5 and 9 have the highest rate of dog bite-related injuries.
Causes of Dog Bite Attacks in Massachusetts
There are many factors that can result in a dog bite attack, including the breed of the dog, the dog's parents, how well the dog has been socialized and trained, and their health. All of these factors and more can effect whether a dog is already pre-disposed to attacking. Other factors that may play a part in a dog bite attack in Massachusetts could be whether the dog is aggressive, whether the dog is responding defensively or out of fear, whether the dog is being territorial or protective, or whether their behavior is elicited by punishment or pain.
Typically, a victim of a dog bite attack suffers injuries to their hands, neck, and face; abrasions and lacerations; puncture wounds; tissue loss; fractured bones; crush injuries; nerve damage; and infections, such as rabies. Scarring also commonly results from dog bite injuries, and in some cases, a victim suffers emotional distress following the attack that can be similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Preventing Massachusetts Dog Bite Attacks
There are several safety tips a person can follow when around a dog to prevent a dog attack from occurring, including:
- Never approach a dog that is unfamiliar to you
- Never run away from a dog
- If you are approached by an unfamiliar dog, remain motionless
- Children should never play with a dog unsupervised
- If you are knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and stay still
- Avoid making direct eye contact with an unfamiliar dog
- You should never disturb a dog that is taking care of puppies, sleeping, or eating
- Always let a dog see and sniff you before petting them
- If you see a stray dog, immediately report them to an animal control agency or to the local police
Holding a Negligent Dog Owner Responsible for Your Injuries
After a dog bite attack in Massachusetts, the owner of the animal may be liable for the injuries and related losses a victim suffers, depending on certain factors. These factors include whether the dog was provoked, whether the victim had previous knowledge of the animal’s behavior, and in what county and/or city the accident occurred. A dog bite attack victim may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering.
If you have sustained serious injuries due to a dog bite attack in Massachusetts, talking with a Boston personal injury lawyer like Tom Kiley from the Kiley Law Group, LLC, can help you conclude whether you have a solid case against the owner of the dog. The attorneys at the Kiley Law Group, LLC, can help you understand the legal options available to you. To schedule a free consultation, call 1-888-208-1695.
