Is there a strange dog making the rounds in your neighborhood, or are you considering adding a new puppy to your family? If so, you should be aware of the risks associated with Los Angeles dog bite injuries and how to keep you and your family safe from an attack.
How at Risk Are You and Your Family?
Most people, especially dog lovers, are unaware of how common dog bite injuries are in America:
- According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.7 million people are bitten annually.
- More than half of the victims are children.
- The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that nearly 50 percent of all children will be bitten by a dog by the time they are 12 years old.
What about Friendly Dogs?
“Even the friendliest dog may bite when startled or surprised,” according to American Society of Reconstructive Medicine’s Michael Neumeister. “Be cautious, once a child is scarred they are scarred for life. We hear this line all the time ‘The dog has never bitten anyone before.’ A dog’s reaction to being surprised or angered is not predictable.”
What Can I Teach My Child?
The top priority for every parent is keeping their children free from harm. Dog attacks are no exception. Here is a list of 10 things you can teach your child concerning dog safety:
- Never run past a dog. Their instinct is to chase you down.
- Never stare into a dog’s eyes.
- Never go near a tethered or leashed dog.
- Never yell or tease a dog that is behind a fence.
- Never touch a dog without the owner’s permission.
- Never touch a loose dog.
- Never touch or play with a dog that is eating or sleeping.
- Stand very still if a strange dog comes near you. Wait until they are out of sight before moving.
- Curl into a ball and cover your face with your hands if dog knocks you down.
- If there is a loose dog, tell an adult immediately.
What about babies and young children?
Babies and young children should never be left alone with a dog. Again, a dog’s behavior is unpredictable, as well as a child’s. A baby and/or young child lack the ability to defend themselves and yell out if attacked.
What if I Have Already Been Attacked?
Unfortunately, no matter how many precautions you take, you can’t always prevent a dog from attacking and injuring you or a loved one. A dog bite injury can result in permanent physical damage, as well as long-term emotional distress. That is why you should call Steinberg Injury Lawyers.
We have the experience and knowledge to defend your rights and build your case. Our goal is to hold the dog’s owner liable for your injuries and get you the best compensation possible for your damages. You can start today by ordering your free copy of our book, 7 Biggest Mistakes That Can Ruin Your California Injury Case.
If you or your child has been injured by a dog, contact one of our experienced Los Angeles, California dog bite injury lawyers at Steinberg Injury Lawyers at (800) 989-6385. We will evaluate your case for free and advise you on your next steps.
