When you look at your own loving and gentle dog, it can be hard to imagine that there are other dogs that are mean or vicious.

Sadly, in here in California plenty of dogs aren’t as kind as yours. They may attack a human without provocation. This is often the fault of the owner for not taking the proper actions to prevent the attack.

What makes matters worse is the fact that the majority of dog bite victims in San Bernardino are actually children under the age of twelve. Because of a child’s size and inability to defend himself, a large proportion of dog attacks are severe and even fatal.

Although a dog bite can cause severe bodily injury, it may also cause damage that is nonphysical. These damages may be nonphysical but they can take just as long to recover from. It is important that parents recognize these nonphysical damages in order to help mend them.

Three common damages that are nonphysical that a child may experience are:

  • PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is very common among children who have been bitten by a dog. PTSD is a mental condition that is the aftereffect of experiencing a stressful or terrifying event. Unfortunately, many children suffer from PTSD after being involved in a dog bite.
     
  • Loss of faith. Most children have a natural trust and faith in dogs. This can quickly go away when the child is attacked. It can take a lot of time and effort to regain their faith in dogs.
     
  • Phobia. Traumatic experiences is one of the main causes for people to develop phobias. This is no different when a child is bitten by a dog. With the help of parents, friends, and the proper therapy, the phobia may be overcome.
     

Like physical damages, nonphysical damage can be grounds for a lawsuit. To discuss your legal options simply fill out the contact form found on this page.

Peter Steinberg
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Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney Since 1982