As parents and caregivers, we strive to create a safe and nurturing environment for our children. However, the unfortunate reality is that dog bites pose a significant risk to children, often resulting in serious injuries and emotional trauma. It’s crucial to understand the prevalence of dog bites, the factors that contribute to these incidents, and the steps you can take to protect your child.
At The Killino Firm, we’re dedicated to advocating for the rights of children who have been injured in dog attacks. Our experienced legal team understands the devastating impact these incidents can have on a child’s physical and emotional well-being. We’re committed to providing compassionate legal representation and fighting for the compensation families deserve to help with their child’s recovery.
The Alarming Statistics of Dog Bites and Children
Dog bites are a serious public health issue, and the statistics paint a concerning picture, especially when it comes to children:
- Millions of Bites Each Year: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States. Â
- Children at Higher Risk: Children are disproportionately affected by dog bites, with those aged 5-9 being the most likely to be bitten. (CDC)
- Significant Insurance Claims: Dog bites account for over a third of all homeowner’s insurance liability claims, highlighting the financial burden these incidents can place on families. (Insurance Information Institute)
- Children Under 12 Most Vulnerable: A staggering 50% of dog attacks involve children under 12 years old. (World Animal Foundation)
- Unsupervised Infants at Extreme Risk: Unsupervised newborns are 370 times more likely to be killed by a dog than an adult. (World Animal Foundation)
- Facial Injuries Common in Children: Children are more likely than adults to be bitten on the face, neck, or head, potentially leading to serious injuries and permanent scarring.
- Family Dogs and Young Children: 47% of dog-bite victims under the age of 4 are attacked by the family’s own dog.
- Increased Fatalities: Since the 1990s, the number of fatal dog attacks that occur each year has increased significantly.
- Reconstructive Surgeries: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most reconstructive surgeries required as a result of dog bites are performed on children. At least one AAP representative has predicted that half of all children will suffer a dog-bite injury before they graduate from high school. Â
These statistics emphasize the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and responsible dog ownership to protect our children from harm.
Understanding the Factors that Contribute to Dog Bites
Several factors can increase the risk of dog bite incidents:
- Male Dogs: Studies have shown that male dogs are more likely to be involved in fatal dog attacks. 92% of fatal dog attacks involve male dogs, and 94% of those are not neutered. (World Animal Foundation) This highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership, including spaying or neutering dogs.
- Chained Dogs: Dogs that are kept chained or tethered for extended periods are more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior. This is often attributed to increased stress, frustration, and a lack of socialization. (World Animal Foundation)
- Unrestrained Dogs: Dogs that are allowed to roam freely, especially off their owner’s property, pose a greater risk to the public, including children. 24% of fatal dog attacks involved dogs that were unrestrained and off their owner’s property. (World Animal Foundation)
- Familiar Dogs: It’s important to remember that most dog bites occur on or near the victim’s property, and most victims know the dog. This emphasizes the need to teach children how to interact safely with dogs, even those they are familiar with.
- Children’s Behavior: Children’s loud and unpredictable behavior can sometimes frighten or trigger dogs, increasing the risk of a bite. It’s essential to teach children how to approach and interact with dogs safely, including avoiding sudden movements, loud noises, and direct eye contact, which can be perceived as threatening by some dogs.
Dangerous Breeds: Myth vs. Reality
While certain dog breeds, such as Pit Bulls and Rottweilers, have a reputation for aggression, it’s important to remember that any breed of dog can bite.
- Breed is not the sole determinant of aggression: A dog’s behavior is influenced by various factors, including breeding, training, socialization, and individual temperament.
- Responsible Ownership is Key: Regardless of breed, responsible dog ownership, including proper training, socialization, and supervision, is crucial for preventing dog bites.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which can have lasting physical and emotional consequences:
- Scars: Dog bites can leave permanent scars, especially on the face and neck, which can affect a child’s self-esteem and body image.
- Infections: Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the wound, leading to infections that may require antibiotics or even hospitalization.
- Facial Injuries: Bites to the face can cause serious damage to the eyes, nose, and mouth, potentially requiring reconstructive surgery or resulting in permanent disfigurement.
- Head Trauma: Bites to the head can cause concussions, skull fractures, and even traumatic brain injuries, which can have long-term cognitive and developmental effects.
- Emotional Trauma: Children can experience significant emotional trauma after a dog bite, including fear, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional scars can require therapy and counseling to overcome.
What to Do If Your Child Is Bitten by a Dog
If your child is bitten by a dog, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect their health and preserve their legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to have it examined by a doctor. Dog bites can easily become infected; early medical intervention can prevent complications.
- Contact the Police: Report the incident to the police. They will create a report that documents the incident and can be helpful for your legal case.
- Gather Evidence: Document the incident thoroughly. Take photographs of the injuries, the dog (if possible), and the location where the bite occurred. If there were any witnesses, obtain their contact information. This evidence can be crucial in supporting your child’s claim.
- Contact Our Experienced Child Dog Bite Lawyers: A lawyer with experience with dog bite cases can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company to seek compensation for your child’s injuries and losses.
Compensation for Child Dog Bite Injuries
If your child has been bitten by a dog, you may be able to recover compensation for the following:
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of treating the dog bite, any future medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs, such as physical therapy or counseling.
- Lost Wages: If you have to miss work to care for your child, you may be able to recover lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for the physical and emotional pain your child has experienced.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: If your child has been left with scars, you may be able to recover compensation for the emotional distress and potential future expenses related to scar revision or treatment.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws
Dog bite laws vary by state, but generally, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their dogs.
- Strict Liability: In some states, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous. This means that the dog owner is responsible for the injuries caused by their dog, even if they took precautions to prevent the bite.
- Negligence: In other states, you may need to prove that the dog owner was negligent in some way, such as failing to properly restrain the dog or knowing the dog had a history of aggression but failing to take steps to prevent a bite.
Our experienced dog bite lawyers can help you understand the specific laws in your state and determine the best legal strategy for your case.
The Killino Firm: Fighting for Justice for Dog Bite Victims
At The Killino Firm, we’re dedicated to helping families who have been affected by dog bite injuries. We have the experience and resources to:
- Thoroughly investigate the incident: We’ll gather evidence to determine liability and build a strong case to support your child’s claim.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: We’ll fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Represent you in court: If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial to protect your child’s rights and ensure they receive the justice they deserve.
Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review
If your child has been bitten by a dog, don’t hesitate to contact The Killino Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and answer your questions. We understand this is a difficult time for your family, and we’re here to provide compassionate support and guidance every step of the way.
