Dog Bite Prevention Week
National Dog Bite Prevention Week is a reminder of just how common – and preventable – dog bites really are. The most common dog bite victims? Children, the elderly, and mail carriers. More than 2 million children fall victim to vicious bites, while over 5,000 mail carriers find themselves injured by dogs each year.
Here are a few tips for avoiding dog bites:
- Be aware that no matter how big or small a dog is, any dog can bite.
- Never approach an unfamiliar dog. Especially if it has been tied down or confined.
- Do not disturb a dog if he/she is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy, or caring for puppies.
- Pay attention to the dog’s body language. Signs that the dog may be uncomfortable: stiff tail, tense body, intense stare, backing away, pulled back ears, has furrowed brows, growling, barking, etc.
If you believe the dog is about to bite you, try to place something in between you and the animal – a bicycle, purse or backpack could be the difference between a small nip or serious bite. Do not ever run past a dog: instead, back slowly out of sight of the animal while avoiding eye contact.
7 Things To Do Immediately After A Dog Bite or Attack
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Get the name and address of any witnesses and the dog owner.
- Make a dog bite report with the police department, fire department, or animal control department of your city or county, so that they can document the event and begin an investigation.
- Take photos of your injuries as soon as possible.
- Know your legal rights before speaking with the dog owner’s insurance adjuster or investigator.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement.
- Contact a lawyer with experience in dog bite and attack cases.
Free Virginia Dog Bite Handbook
Our Virginia personal injury lawyers have written this free book to educate individuals and their family members about their legal rights if they are injured in a Virginia dog bite or attack. If you or a loved one has been a victim of a dog bite or attack, we strongly suggest that you read our book before hiring a lawyer or speaking with the insurance company.
CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE COPY
Injured in A Dog Attack?
A dog bite is a devastating experience, especially when the victim is a small child. Victims of dog attacks face serious physical injuries, permanent scarring, and emotional trauma. If you have been attacked or bitten by someone else’s dog you are probably trying to figure out what to do next. Contact Virginia dog bite lawyer Richard Serpe to discuss your legal options.