Dogs are supposedly man’s best friend, and many are indeed loyal, loving companions who would not harm a fly—let alone a human. However, despite centuries of breeding and domestication, dogs are still animals with defensive and predatory instincts. These instincts can, and sometimes do, manifest as aggression toward other animals or humans. Dog bites can be severe and traumatic, resulting in physical and psychological harm that may take months or even years to recover from. Tragically, some attacks cause permanent disability or disfigurement, and a small percentage are fatal.
If you or a loved one were injured by a dog bite, the El Monte dog bite lawyers with Pintas & Mullins Law Firm may be able to help you pursue justice and fair compensation. If the attack was a result of the dog owner’s negligence or recklessness, you may be eligible to seek monetary awards for your injuries, as well as emotional pain and anguish. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm office today at (800) 816-0755 for a free consultation to determine if you have grounds for a personal injury case.
Prevalence of Dog Bites
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dogs bite approximately 4.7 million people each year in the United States. Most victims are children, and most attacks occur at home.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) confirms that all dogs can be dangerous. A recent study proves the notion that some breeds are dangerous while others are not is misleading. In fact, researchers are not even sure what breed is responsible for the most bites. “Unknown” takes the top spot, followed by pitbull, mixed, German shepherd, terrier, and rottweiler.
Types of Injuries Associated with Dog Bites
Immediately after a dog bite attack, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Depending on the nature of the bite, injuries may be severe and even fatal. The CDC reports that nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. require medical care for dog bite injuries each year. Almost 27,000 people had reconstructive surgery for dog bite injuries in 2018 alone, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Even if the wound is not obviously severe, it may become infected without treatment. According to the CDC, about one in five dog bites becomes infected, which can cause severe and even life-threatening complications.
Some common types of injuries associated with dog bite attacks include:
- Deep contusions
- Puncture wounds
- Fractures
- Head and face injuries
- Dismemberment
- Emotional anguish, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and phobia of dogs
If you experience any of these injuries, an El Monte dog bite lawyer can help you seek compensation. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today for a free case evaluation.
For a free legal consultation with a Dog Bites Lawyer serving El Monte, call (800) 794-0444
Causes of Dog Bite Injuries
Most dogs do not bite for no reason. Owners need to be responsible and know what may prompt their dog to feel threatened. Likewise, owners are expected to take appropriate steps to mitigate potential threats to humans and animals the dog may come in contact with. This can include investing in proper training, keeping the dog on a leash in public, and keeping the dog in a fenced yard while at home. Owners should also be aware of their dog’s behavioral tendencies and any signs their animal may be afraid or anxious.
Some common reasons why dogs attack include:
- Territorialism: Dogs, like most animals, can be territorial and may attack if they feel the need to defend their turf. This explains why many dogs bark when someone rings the doorbell or if a stranger enters the home. Owners should be aware if their dog tends to be territorial and take appropriate steps to protect visitors, such as keeping the dog in a separate room or on a leash.
- Provocation: Certain situations can provoke aggressive or defensive behaviors, such as when a person is hurting or bothering the dog. This may include reflexive triggers—for instance, some dogs feel the instinct to attack joggers or cyclists. Dogs can also be intimidated if a person puts their face too close to the dog’s face. Many people do this unknowingly, thinking it is an affectionate gesture, but dogs do not always view it as such. These types of interactions can lead to severe facial injuries.
- Instincts: Dogs have innate instincts that may factor into their behavior in various ways. One of the more obvious instincts is the protectiveness exhibited by pregnant dogs and those who have given birth. Certain breeds, such as border collies, may instinctively nip at people in an attempt to “herd” them. In the latter case, proper training may be able to help dogs overcome such instincts.
El Monte Dog Bites Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
How an El Monte Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You
If you were severely injured by a dog bite, you may face thousands of dollars in medical bills, including emergency care, reconstructive surgery, and/or rehabilitative therapy. You might also be unable to work for weeks or months while you recover—and if you were permanently disabled, you might not be able to return to work at all. Financial losses can compound the hardship of your traumatic experience, resulting in excessive stress and anxiety.
You do not have to go through this difficult period alone. The team of El Monte dog bite lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is committed to advocating for dog bite victims and helping them pursue fair compensation for their injuries. Keep in mind that you do not have unlimited time to pursue action. Under the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, dog bite victims in California have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim.
To get started, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 816-0755 for a free case review.
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