Dog Attack Statistics and Tips

Dog Bite Facts:

*An estimated 4.7 million Americans will be bitten this year.

*Children are the primary victims. The elderly and home service workers such as mail carriers and meter readers are also high on the list.

*As many as 800,000 people annually require medical treatment for dog bites.

*About 12 people each year die from dog attacks.

*According to the insurance information institute, insurance companies paid 317.2 million for dog bite liability claims in 2005 alone.

How To Avoid Dog Bites:

* Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.

* Don’t run past a dog: Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Don’t give them a reason to become excited or aggressive.

* Never disturb a dog thats caring for puppies, sleeping or eating.

* If a dog approaches to sniff you, stay still. In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a threat.

* If threatened by a dog, remain calm. Don’t scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly. Avoid eye contact. Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until the dog is out of sight. Don’t turn and run. If you believe a dog is about to attack, try to place something between you and the dog , such as a purse, a backpack or a bicycle.

 

If A Dog Attacks:

 

* If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck.

* Protect your face.

As a Sacramento personal injury lawyer, Moseley Collins has dealt with numerous dog bite cases. We believe that if you or a loved one have been injured or killed by a dog attack, you have the right to obtain an experienced personal injury attorney. Hiring an experienced lawyer will help you win the money to pay for medical care, and other expenses resulting from the attack.