Dog Bite Attorneys – How Many Dog Bites occur Annually
How many dog bites occur annually?
Dogs bite about 4.5 million people every year and almost one fifth (about 800,000) of those people require medical attention. Thousands of people undergo plastic surgery every year because of dog bites.
Are certain people more at risk than others?
Although recent research shows that the rate of dog bites among children has decreased, children, especially those between the ages of 5 and 9, are most at risk of dog bites. Additionally, children are more likely than adults to need medical attention. In fact, dog bites are the second highest cause of emergency room visits for children. Other than children, the elderly and service workers (such as mail carriers and home heath aids) are at a high risk of dog bites. Among adults, men are more at risk of dog bites than women.
How can I prevent a dog bite?
Do not approach unfamiliar dogs
Avoid eye contact
Do not run from a dog
When approached by an unfamiliar dog, remain as still as possible (“like a tree”)
If you are knocked down by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still. Cover your head and neck with your hands and protect your face.
Do not allow children to play with a dog without adult supervision
Do not disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping or caring for its puppies
When you want to pet a dog, allow it to see and sniff you first
What causes dogs to bite?
A number of factors cause increased aggression in dogs which, in turn, increase the risk of dogs biting or attacking someone. These factors include:
Poor health/Pain
Fear
Insufficient training
Insufficient socialization prior to the age of 14 weeks
Dogs from pet stores and puppy mills have an increased risk of exhibiting aggressive behavior
Males (especially non-neutered males) are generally more aggressive than females
Chaining
What is leash law?
Most communities in the United States have laws that require a dog to be on a leash at all times except when confined in a home. A dog may also be kept without a leash in a yard so long as the yard is fenced.
What is the most common dog bite?,/h3>
Pit bulls result in over 50% of the most serious dog bite cases. The second most common dog bites are Rottweilers. However, little scientific evidence exists to support claims that certain breeds are more likely to bite.
What state has the most fatal dog bites?
Texas is the nation’s leader in fatal dog attacks. It is a “first-bite” state.
What kind of insurance covers dog bites?
Homeowners insurance covers dog bites most of the time. When purchasing a dog, check your homeowners insurance policy to ensure that dog bites are covered.
Is it more common to get bit by a stranger’s dog or a family member’s dog?
75% of the time, victims are bit by a family member’s dog.
If you or a family member have been bitten by a dog, call us for a free consultation.
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