DOG BITE INJURY LAWYER

Each year, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States alone. In addition to physical pain and suffering, dog bite victims suffer $1 billion in monetary losses each year, according to State Farm Insurance. Bites range from small nips to serious mauling, often resulting in permanent damage, disability, and even death. The result of the owner’s negligence in most cases, dog bite cases are rampant and very serious, especially since there are over 65 million dogs sharing our homes in the United States. One out of every 6 bites requires medical attention—often to treat serious injuries.

Over one-half of all dog bite cases occur while the victim is at home. This could be a neighbor’s, a friend’s, or your own dog. Dog bites can carry more serious problems than just lacerations or punctures, but also bruising, nerve damage, permanent disability, and diseases like tetanus and rabies.

If you have been the victim of a serious dog bite in San Diego:

• The first step is to wash the wound with soap and water. Avoid the use of any disinfectants or ointments.
• With a clean towel, apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding. Elevate the wound above your heart, if possible.
• Apply a sterile bandage to the wound. Try to keep any adhesive glue away from the wound itself.
• Reduce swelling and blood loss by elevating the wound.
• Report the incident and injury to Animal Control as soon as possible.
• If the injury is especially serious, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
• Do not hesitate to contact an experienced severe dog bite injury attorney as soon as possible.

You should call your doctor if:

• You cave been bitten in the face, hands, or feet. These are especially problematic areas that should been treated by a medical professional immediately.
• If you are diabetic, suffering from cancer, liver or kidney disease, or AIDS, since you are especially prone to infection.
• You notice discoloration, puffiness, or oozing of the wound. These are signs of infection.
• If you are still bleeding 15 minutes after being bitten. Call your doctor immediately.
• If you had not had a tetanus shot in over 5 years. You run the risk of serious infection.

Dog bites can result in many types of injuries, including lacerations, punctures, bone joint injuries, bruising, and muscle and tendon tears. IN addition, dog bite victims run the risk of developing serious mental and emotional disorders including a deep fear of dogs, the outdoors (where the bite occurred, possibly), and post-traumatic stress.