Nebraska Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog Bite

The 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey found that there are approximately 77.5 million dogs in the United States. Unfortunately then, it is not surprising to find out that there are a significant number of dog bite attacks that occur annually in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that over 4.7 million people are bitten by a dog each year, with about 800,000 of those bites requiring medical attention and 386,000 needing treatment at a hospital emergency room. Every year, an average of about 16 people die from injuries they sustained in a dog bite attack. It is an unfortunate fact that children between the ages of 5 and 9 have the highest rate of suffering dog bite-related injuries.

Dog Bite Attack Causes

There are several factors that may result in a dog bite attack, including the following:

  • The breed of the dog
  • The dog’s health
  • The dog’s parents
  • The training and socialization of the dog

These factors and more may impact whether or not a dog is already pre-disposed to attacking people. Other aspects that may play a role in a dog bite attack include whether or not the dog is aggressive, whether or not they are acting out of fear or defensively, whether or not they are being protective or territorial, or whether or not their behavior is the response to punishment or pain.

The U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 4.7 million people are bitten by a dog each year.In a dog bite attack, a victim typically suffers a wide variety of injuries, including face, neck, and hand injuries; lacerations and abrasions; fractured or broken bones; puncture wounds; nerve damage; tissue loss; and infections, such as rabies. These types of injuries usually result in scarring, which may require one or more surgical operations to remedy. In serious cases, an injured victim may suffer severe emotional distress after a dog bite attack that can mimic symptoms related to post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). These injuries may also prove to be fatal in some instances.

Holding a Negligent Dog Owner Accountable

Depending on certain circumstances, following a dog bite attack, the dog’s owner may be held responsible for a victim’s injuries and related losses. An investigation will need to determine whether or not the dog was provoked prior to the incident, whether or not the victim was aware of the dog’s behavior, and in what city and/or county the incident occurred. Victims who have been injured in a dog bite attack may be able to obtain compensation to cover costs related to their injuries, in addition to pain and suffering.

If you have been seriously injured in a dog bite attack, consulting with an Omaha dog bite attorney can help you determine whether you have a valid claim against the owner of the dog. At Cullan & Cullan, our attorneys are also physicians, so we understand the significance of your injuries and your suffering. We can help you understand the legal options available to you in order for you to receive the compensation you need and deserve from a negligent dog owner.