Bronx Dog Bite Lawyers
We here at the Lipsig Firm are a fan of pets, and we’re definitely dog people. But we also know how dangerous a pet or stray dog bite can be. Dog attacks can be vicious and unexpected, leaving victims with lasting injuries. Whether or not you know the dog or its owners, dog bites need to be taken seriously.
The Bronx dog-bite lawyers at the Lipsig Firm are the best people to call if you’ve been attacked by a dog. We understand that this can be a very difficult, stressful, and traumatic time, and we’re here to help you through this experience.
How Common Are Dog Bites in the Bronx?
In New York City, about 4,000 dog bites happen every year. From 2015 to 2020, people in the Bronx reported about 500 dog bites per year. More recent data is being studied so that people and citizens are aware of the dangers of dog bites.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites and Attacks
Because the jaws of a dog are so strong, even playful bites can be damaging. Injuries from dog bites or attacks vary in severity from mild to serious.
- Broken bones can result from a bite. Dog bites on hands may result in broken finger bones. Even the ulna and radius in your arm may sustain a break from a bite.
- Eye injuries can occur if the dog lunges at a person’s face. Injuries to the eyes can be difficult to heal or may result in loss of sight.
- Puncture wounds from the teeth of the dog are injuries that pierce the skin, leading to gashes and open wounds.
- In drastic cases, body parts can be torn or bitten off by the force of an attack.
Dog attacks are not something to be taken lightly; the damage they cause can potentially be deadly. Some people may go into shock after an attack, which is a deadly condition if not treated.
New York City Health officials recommend that you call 311 and report the dog bite. As a rule, all animal bites must be reported. Health officials also recommend that you wash the bite and seek medical treatment to follow up. The Bronx dog-bite lawyers are here to take on your case once you’ve received the appropriate medical treatment.
Why do Dogs Bite?
Dogs often bite because they feel afraid. If a dog feels threatened, it will likely bark and bare its teeth. Often, as a last resort, it will bite to show that they are scared. Dogs might also accidentally bite if they are overly excited and play fighting, or if they are trying to grab a treat from someone’s hands.
Can I Prevent Dog Bites?
While nothing can prevent dog bites completely, the way you approach a dog, whether a stray or a pet, can help immensely. Remember to follow these rules when dealing with a dog:
- Before engaging with a pet dog, ask the owner if you can pet their dog
- Approach a new dog slowly
- Hold your hands flat
- Allow the new dog to sniff you
- Do not bark at, play rough, or even try to pet the dog immediately
- If the dog is growling, DO NOT approach; instead, back away
- NEVER approach a strange dog, a stray dog, or a dog who is behaving strangely
Why Should I Worry About a Dog Bite?
Dog bites can cost the victim thousands in medical expenses. Below is a list of costs that victims of dog bites potentially have to deal with:
- Stitches or medical care from the immediate attack
- Ambulance ride to the hospital
- Time off of work to heal
- Medication
- Physical therapy
- Counseling or therapy to deal with the emotional aspect of the attack
Long-Term Effects of Dog Bites
Any bite that breaks the skin can leave more than just a superficial injury. Long-lasting repercussions may occur from a dog bite.
- Scarring from gashes or wounds may happen when a dog punctures the skin. Scarring is especially common on tender areas of the body and around the face.
- Infection concerns are very high with dog bites. Dogs have bacteria in their mouths and teeth, and when they puncture the skin of a victim, they can transfer that bacteria into the bloodstream, which can lead to an infection.
- Nerve damage can occur with even small bites. The strength of a dog’s teeth may affect the delicate nerves of the hand or arm, leading to lasting issues.
- Cynophobia, or fear of dogs, may arise after an attack. This anxiety may be new and may require treatment to work through.
- Various diseases can be transferred from a dog to a human through a bite.
Rabies: A Deadly Condition
Rabies is a disease that is passed from animal to human or animal to animal through bodily fluids, usually through a bite. Dogs who have rabies may present some of the following symptoms:
- Drooling, or foaming at the mouth
- An unsteady walk
- Aversion to food
- Highly aggressive behavior
Rabies affects the nervous system and brain function of dogs and humans. It is incredibly important to visit a doctor to receive a rabies shot immediately if you think that you have been bitten by a rabid dog. Because symptoms are not always present during a dog attack, a doctor may administer a rabies shot after a bite in case the dog did have rabies.
What is My Dog Bite Injury Worth?
The owner of the dog is responsible for their pet, and they may be held liable for your compensation. Because of the extensive healing and care that goes into healing a dog bite, treatment may cost upwards of tens of thousands of dollars in expenses. As such, the range of compensation can be between 30,000 and 50,000 to help cover medical costs.
Contact the Lipsig Firm for Dog Bite Cases
The Bronx dog bite accident lawyers are here to take on your case. We work hard to make sure you feel represented. We help to hold the owners responsible for their dog’s actions.
We offer a free consultation for every case we work on. We don’t accept a fee unless your case is settled. Call us today at 212-285-3300 or reach out online to one of our Bronx dog-bite lawyers. We understand that this is a stressful and confusing time, which is why we’re on your side. Contact us today if you’ve been involved in a dog attack accident.
