Dog bites are more common than many people realize, and they often lead to serious injuries that require medical care and, in some cases, legal attention. Dogs are often seen as loyal friends and family members, but they are animals with instincts that sometimes lead to aggression. When a dog bite occurs, it can have severe effects on a person’s physical health, mental well-being, and even their livelihood. Understanding what happens when someone is bitten by a dog can help people protect themselves and their loved ones. Knowing how the law treats dog bites can also be helpful, especially if you or a family member is ever involved in such an incident. At, Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Injuries That Result from Dog Bites
Dog bites are not only painful but also leave people with lasting damage that can take weeks, months, or even years to heal. When a dog bites, it does more than just break the skin. Many bites cause deep puncture wounds that can damage muscles, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Even though some bites appear minor on the surface, they may still require urgent medical attention because they carry a high risk of infection. The bacteria that can enter the wound during a bite can spread and lead to complications if not treated quickly. This is especially important for children, who are often bitten on the head, face, and neck because of their smaller size.
In addition to physical injuries, people who experience dog bites often suffer from emotional trauma. The pain and fear that come from being attacked by an animal can leave lasting memories that make a person fearful of dogs, sometimes for life. This emotional toll is especially strong in children who may develop anxiety or fear around animals after being bitten. The combination of physical and mental injuries from a dog bite can disrupt someone’s life and lead to difficulties in their daily routine, including missing work or school.
Infections from Dog Bites and Their Treatment
One of the most significant risks from dog bites is infection. Dogs carry various bacteria in their mouths, which can quickly enter the body through a bite wound. Common infections from dog bites include rabies, tetanus, and infections caused by bacteria like Pasteurella, which is known to cause swelling and intense pain. Another bacterial infection, called Capnocytophaga, can be severe and even life-threatening, especially for individuals with weaker immune systems. Infection symptoms may not always show immediately, which is why it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible after a bite.
Treatment for these infections usually begins with a healthcare professional cleaning the wound thoroughly to remove any bacteria that may have entered. In some cases, doctors prescribe antibiotics to fight off infection, and if there is a risk of rabies, a series of rabies shots may be necessary. Tetanus shots are also recommended for some dog bite victims. Depending on the severity of the bite, stitches may be required to close the wound. However, doctors are often careful about using stitches for dog bites, as closing the wound too soon could trap bacteria inside, leading to further infection.
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Long-Term Impact of Dog Bite Injuries
For some people, the impact of a dog bite does not end after the wound has healed. Dog bites can leave significant scarring, especially on the face, arms, or legs. These scars can affect a person’s self-esteem and may require plastic surgery to improve appearance. Scars from dog bites can also be painful, as the skin may be more sensitive around the healed area. In severe cases, people may lose movement in certain parts of the body if the bite caused nerve damage. Nerve injuries can be long-lasting and, in some cases, may never fully heal.
Another long-term impact of dog bites is the psychological effect. Many people who have been bitten by a dog report ongoing anxiety, especially when they encounter dogs again. This fear can become so intense that it affects a person’s ability to go for walks, visit friends who own pets, or even leave their home. Children who experience severe bites are especially likely to carry these emotional scars into adulthood. Therapy and counseling can help people work through these fears, but it may take time and effort to fully overcome the trauma.
Legal Considerations for Dog Bite Injuries
In addition to physical and emotional consequences, dog bites often lead to legal questions. Each state has its own laws about dog bites and who is responsible when they happen. Generally, dog owners are expected to keep their pets under control to prevent them from biting someone. When a dog does bite, the owner may be held responsible for the harm caused. This can mean covering medical bills, paying for lost wages if the injured person is unable to work, or compensating for any lasting effects of the bite, such as scarring or emotional distress.
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For people bitten by a dog, it is important to understand their legal rights and how they can seek compensation for their injuries. Many states follow what is called the “strict liability” rule, which means that the dog’s owner is responsible for the injuries caused by the bite, regardless of whether the dog had shown aggressive behavior before. However, some states follow the “one bite” rule, which only holds owners responsible if they knew their dog had a tendency to bite.
Understanding these laws can be challenging, especially when you are dealing with the aftermath of a painful injury. Legal help can guide you through the process and ensure you get the help you need for medical bills, lost income, and the emotional toll a dog bite can cause. In some cases, the person who was bitten may receive compensation for things like physical therapy, surgery, or counseling to help with the trauma.
The Importance of Medical Documentation
Medical documentation is a crucial part of both treatment and legal cases involving dog bites. After a dog bite occurs, seeing a healthcare provider is important to ensure the injury is properly treated. Medical records serve as proof of the injury and the treatment received, which can be essential if the case goes to court. Detailed medical records can show the extent of the injuries, the care required, and the cost of treatment, which helps determine the level of compensation that may be available.
Medical documentation is also helpful for tracking the recovery process and any complications that arise. If the bite leads to long-term health issues, like nerve damage or lasting scars, these records are evidence of the ongoing impact of the injury. This documentation can make a significant difference in proving the case in court or in negotiations with insurance companies. When people try to manage a dog bite case without medical records, it becomes much harder to show the harm they have suffered.
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How a Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help
The legal side of a dog bite injury can feel overwhelming, especially if the injury is severe. Working with a lawyer who understands dog bite cases can make the process smoother and less stressful. A lawyer can explain your rights, help gather evidence, and build a case to hold the responsible party accountable. They can also negotiate with insurance companies, which are often involved in covering the costs of injuries. Insurance companies may try to minimize the payout, so having someone on your side can ensure you receive fair compensation.
A lawyer can also help if there are disagreements about what happened or who is responsible. Sometimes, the dog owner may claim that the person who was bitten provoked the dog. Other times, the owner may argue that the dog was defending itself. A lawyer can help gather witness statements, medical records, and other evidence to build a strong case.
After a dog bite, it can be challenging to know when to reach out for legal help. For minor bites that do not require much treatment, legal action may not be necessary. However, if the bite leads to serious injuries, infection, or permanent scars, speaking with a lawyer is a good idea. A lawyer can assess the situation and determine whether pursuing a claim would be in your best interest. Legal help is especially useful if the injury leads to ongoing medical bills, emotional trauma, or an inability to work. Acting quickly after a bite can also be important, as there may be time limits for filing a claim.
Verdicts & Settlements
Dog bites can leave lasting scars on both the body and the mind, and they often require both medical and legal care to fully address. When someone suffers from a dog bite, they deserve the opportunity to recover without being burdened by medical expenses, lost income, or ongoing emotional pain. Legal help can make a difference in helping people move forward with their lives and find closure after a traumatic event.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, reaching out to experienced legal assistance can be a valuable step in your recovery. Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC understands the challenges dog bite victims face and is ready to provide the guidance you need to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. Call today to learn how we can help you take the next steps in your recovery journey.