South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog
Anyone can be victim of a dog bite, but some are more vulnerable than others.
Children, the elderly, and, not surprisingly, postal service workers, often become victim to aggressive, even fatal dog attacks. Dog Bite Awareness Week, sponsored by The U.S. Postal Service, ended the month of May. Every year, the agency wants to raise public awareness about the dangers of dog bites with the campaign slogan: “Any dog can bite. Don’t be fooled.” In addition to the U.S. Postal Service, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the National Human Society are also partnering up to promote pet safety and prevent animal attacks.
Nationwide, the summer season is the most dangerous time of the year as kids, neighbors, friends, relatives and pets interact.
For pet owners, animal lovers, and parents, it is especially important to remember that every dog has the potential to be dangerous. National Dog Bite Prevention Week marks a public service campaign that sheds light on the public health problem of dog bites. The agency provides safety tips to keep owners informed and to prevent future bites and injuries. Our Fort Lauderdale dog bite attorneys are dedicated to helping the victims and families of animal attacks.
Young children are frequently the victims of dog bites and animal attacks. Every year there are more than 4.5 million Americans attacked by dogs. One in five of those cases will require medical attention. Many of these tragic dog bite cases will result in death. Children often become victims because they are curious and do not know the potential dangers. Kids are also smaller, making it more difficult for them to defend themselves against small or large dogs.
Any animal attack can result in severe and lasting injuries for victims. Dog bites can cause scarring, lacerations, permanent injuries, loss of limb, and fatalities. Victims of dog bites may also suffer emotional damage from a vicious attack. According to reports, the number of dog bites exceeds the number of other public health risks, including measles and mumps combined. Studies also indicate that dog bite victims make up 5% of all emergency room visits.
There are a number of ways to prevent animal attacks. If you are a dog owner, you should always keep your animal behind a fence or on a leash. Dangerous dogs should also wear a muzzle. If you have children, you can keep them informed about the danger of dogs and make sure that they ask before petting strange dogs. Children should never approach a dog quickly or at eye level. This will intimidate a dog and could cause them to snap at a child’s face.
Remember that in the state of Florida, any victim of a dog bite is entitled to compensation, regardless of whether that dog has a previous history of bites or attacks. If you or someone you love has been bit by a dog, you should take immediate action. While medical treatment should be a priority, you should also try to identify the owner and inform authorities about a dangerous dog.
An experienced advocate can also help you collect relevant evidence to prove negligence and to recover compensation after a dog bite injury. You may be entitled to significant compensation for your losses including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, long-term care needs, and reconstructive surgery.
Call Freeman, Mallard, Sharp & Gonzalez — 1-800-561-7777 for a free appointment to discuss your rights.