We all want to believe that when we encounter a dog, it will not harm us. After all, they are “man’s best friend,” right? We tend to feel safe around our own dogs, but should we? What about a relative’s dog, a neighbor’s dog, or a dog we don’t know? Do dogs only bite when they are threatened? Are our children safe?
The data linked to dog bite fatalities is alarming.
“42 U.S. dog bite-related fatalities occurred in 2014. Despite being regulated in Military Housing areas and over 700 U.S. cities, pit bulls contributed to 64% (27) of these deaths. Pit bulls make up about 6% of the total U.S. dog population.
Together, pit bulls (27) and rottweilers (4), the second most lethal dog breed, accounted for 74% of the total recorded deaths in 2014. This same combination also accounted for 74% of all fatal attacks during the 10-year period of 2005 to 2014.” – www.dogbite.org
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the number of dog bite incidents nationwide is up five percent and California is the state with the highest incidents. In 2013, there were five deaths in California and all of the deaths were attributed to pit bulls. Criminal charges were filed in 60% of these deaths. Additionally, it is estimated that insurance companies in California paid out $65 million in dog bite claims in 2013. – sacramento.cbslocal.com
If you or someone close to you has been attacked by a dog, you have rights. You may be able to receive compensation from the dog owners, the dog owner’s landlord, and sometimes your insurance company. To ensure there are no further attacks, you may have the right to remove the dog from your neighborhood and even have it put down, if necessary.
Dog bites not only cause physical scarring, they also can cause emotional scarring. Our seasoned lawyers can help you determine the best course of action for your case. Contact one of our Sacramento dog bite attorneys and we’ll get you back on the road to recovery immediately!
