Often referred to as “man’s best friend,” dogs are a common family pet. They can be a person’s constant companions and provide a great sense of security. However, they are known to attack in certain circumstances or if provoked. In some cases, canines may attack when they are sick or trying to protect their pups. Unfortunately, a dog bite can result in serious and even life-threatening injuries. Research has shown that certain breeds of dogs are more prone to attack or inflict injuries on humans. If you or your loved one was hurt by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit brought against the dog’s owner. A skilled attorney can help you pursue damages for medical bills as well as pain and suffering.

Aggressive Dog Liability

Although Pitbulls and Rottweilers have a reputation for being aggressive, there are other dogs that can attack and cause harm. Some other breeds associated with attacks are German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Bull Mastiffs, and Doberman Pinschers. According to Illinois liability law, if a pet owner knows of previous aggressive behavior by his or her dog and fails to take action, this can be considered negligence. As long as the individual who was harmed in the attack was not trespassing, the dog’s owner may be found liable in a personal injury claim for punitive damages.

Injuries Sustained

When a dog lunges at an adult or a child, it can be a frightening and traumatic experience. Because it occurs suddenly, it can be difficult to escape from the attack unscathed. Bigger dogs can overpower a child or smaller adult, often knocking them to the ground. A canine’s teeth are extremely sharp and can easily tear through skin. In addition, dogs can scratch with their nails and use their bodies as blunt force. Many dog bites can result in significant blood loss and other debilitating injuries.

Many people own pets such as dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 67 percent of American households, or approximately 85 million families, own a pet. Although dogs are mostly known for their friendly nature and companionship, they can attack for various reasons, such as when they are startled, provoked, or protecting their puppies. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that around 4.4 million people are bitten by a dog in the United States each year, resulting in an estimated 885,000 wounds that require medical attention. A dog bite injury can cause debilitating consequences for the victim. In some cases, a negligent pet owner may be held liable for any injuries his or her dog inflicts on another person.

Complications from a Dog Attack

Being bitten by a dog can result in minor to serious and even fatal injuries. Physical scars from stitches may eventually fade, but certain injuries can cause permanent damage that surgery or physical therapy may not be able to fix. For example, bacterial infections such as Rabies affect the central nervous system. Damage to a victim’s spinal cord can lead to nerve damage and paralysis.

In addition, psychological scars such as anxiety or panic attacks can last a lifetime. A victim may resist going out in public for fear of being attacked again. Below are a few of the common injuries and complications that a victim of a dog attack may experience: