Latest Dog Bite Statistics: 2013 Data

Image Source: http://www.pavlovdogtraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/aggression-dog.jpg

Despite dogs being known for their gentleness and loyalty towards humans, they are still known to possess aggression, regardless if they were provoked or not. When these canines direct their aggression towards either their owners or to other people, the results can be catastrophic. Indeed, when a dog is threatened, its tendency is to attack through biting. Also, if a dog owner fails to take care of his or her pet, the potential of biting him or her or any other stranger increases.

While constant care, companionship, and training are still imperative in keeping canines from showing aggression towards their masters and strangers, occurrences of dog bites still occur every year, resulting in injuries and fatalities.

In fact, from 2005 to last year 2013, at least 283 Americans died because of dog bite injuries. Of the said figure, about 62 percent of these deaths (176) involved pit bulls, making the dog breed the most lethal. Following pit bulls in the said category are rottweilers, accounting for nearly 12 percent, or 33 out of the total fatality figure within the 9-year period.

Moreover, in the latest dog bite statistics for 2013, a slight decrease in U.S. dog bite fatalities were seen. Last year, at least 32 dog bite-related deaths happened, which was a big difference from 2012 wherein 38 fatalities were recorded. Of the said 2013 figure, 25 of them involved pit bulls despite being regulated in housing areas for military personnel and over 700 cities in the nation. The most lethal dog breed accounted for only 6 percent of the total dog population in the nation.

Also, out of the 32 who died due to dog bites in 2013, 18 of them were children 7 years old or below, while adults aged 25 years old or older accounted for 14 of the fatalities. Of the 18 children, 11 of them were 4 years old or younger. In terms of gender, male and female deaths were the same, at 16 each. Furthermore, five of the fatal dog bite incidents happened in the State of California, all of which involved pit bulls and three of them resulted in criminal charges.

Meanwhile, a personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles continuously reminds dog owners to exercise important measures with their pet canines so that fatalities can be avoided to them and to others. It would also help them avoid facing claims from the victims for their dog bite injuries.


Sources:
http://www.dogsbite.org/pdf/9-year-dog-bite-fatality-chart-dogsbiteorg.pdf
http://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-statistics-fatalities-2013.php

5 Dog Breeds that Tend to become Aggressive

  

Dogs can be cuddly, lovable, and entertaining — but they can also be dangerous animals masked as cute canines. It is not new to many that dog attacks are common in many parts of the United States, including California. According to Los Angeles attorneys, several personal injury cases are pursued each year in California due to dog bite accidents.

One of the many reasons why dogs bite is their breed. It’s because certain dog breeds were created to become hostile to people and other animals. These breeds were originally made to protect their masters and 

to herd farm animals.

The following are some of the dog breeds that have a reputation for being aggressive:

Chow chow – Chows are best known for their big furry coat and cute face, but they have the tendency to become aggressive and possessive of their masters. Chow Chow owners are advised to constantly train and socialize their pets; otherwise, their dogs can become a liability to them.

 

Doberman pinscher – Dogs with this breed are usually great guard dogs because of their alertness. Doberman dogs were specifically bred for guarding their masters’ family and properties. However, such characteristic can cause problems if their instincts provoke them to attack innocent people.

German shepherd – Intelligent and alert – these are the common traits of German shepherd dogs. These dogs are commonly used by the police and the military because of their skills in bomb and contraband detection. However, if not properly trained and socialized, they can become very aggressive towards innocent people.

   

Rottweiler – Rotties are popular herding dogs in Germany centuries ago. Since they were originally bred for herding, they naturally have the tendency to become aggressive. Poorly trained and socialized Rottweiler dogs can become hostile and dangerous to people and other animals.

 

Pit bull terrier – Fearlessness is in the bloodline of pit bull dogs. They are known for their physical power and courage, and they can take on anyone if they feel they are being threatened or provoked to attack. However, pit bull owners should not be intimidated with their pets because a well-trained dog can actually become calm and submissive.

Any dog, regardless of its breed, can display aggressiveness and hostility to people if they are not properly trained. Hence, dog owners in Los Angeles should make sure that their pets are well taken care of to avoid dog bite accidents.

Four Easy Steps to Avoid Dog Bite Lawsuit in California

Image Reference: http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/

 The following are simple yet helpful tips for California dog owners to prevent any mishaps as well as legal troubles:

1. Spay and/or neuter your dog – According to studies, spaying or neutering your pet canine can help it become less aggressive. Furthermore, spaying or neutering provides health benefits for your dog such as prevention from uterine infection and breast cancer.

2. Do not leave your child unattended with a dog – Even if your dog is well-disciplined, it is never a good idea to leave your child alone with your pet. There are times when dogs can be easily irritated especially when they are sick or pregnant.

3. Always secure your pet – In California, pursuant to the Leash Law, dog owners are required to restrain their pets when going to public areas. This is to ensure that dogs would not attack any person.

4. Do not provoke your dog to attack someone – Dog owners must be responsible. Summoning your pet to attack someone is not only dangerous but also illegal as strict liability law indicates.

In case that you get injured or attacked by a dog in California, you would need to visit the emergency department immediately so as to avoid further injury. Furthermore, it is advisable for you to seek assistance from a Los Angeles personal injury attorney in order to acquire injury compensations from the liable dog owner.

If you are from Santa Monica, you may opt to hire a Santa Monica attorney who is specializing in handling dog bite cases. Doing this is very important because legal assistance is considered a must when it comes to claiming for damages.

Asserting Strict Liability in a Dog Bite Accident in San Diego

The rabies virus from a dog bite can kill a person in four days. Symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, sudden change in behavior can appear within two weeks. A person bitten by a rabid dog needs immediate vaccination and further medical treatment to prevent the rabies virus from reaching the brain.

If you or your loved one has suffered injuries from a dog bite in San Diego, you may consult with a San Diego Dog Bite Attorney to help you recover damages.

Only seasoned Personal Injury attorney in San Diego can help you prove that the dog owner has liability over your injuries.

They can help you prove strict liability by:

 1. Establishing that the dog owner has a responsibility to implement safety measures to prevent accident. Some examples are: posting warning sign, informing the public on its hazards, construction of safety facilities, vaccination, and regular tending.

The owner also has the responsibility to know the dangerous propensities of the dog, implement corrective measures upon learning the hazards, and protect the public from potential dog bite attack.


2. Proving that the dog owner has failed to fulfill such duty.

3. Establishing the causes of events, leading to accident.

4. Presenting evidence that the accident has led to your injuries.

Only reliable litigators will guide you throughout this legal process:

1.    Gathering of legal documents such as copy of police report, witness statements, and medical records
2.    Filing the lawsuit
3.    Pre-trial/ Mediation
4.    Trial
5.    Verdict
6.    Appeal

Consult with skilled attorneys who work with medical practitioners and professionals to provide expert analysis that can substantiate your case. It is also an advantage that you choose a law firm that offers contingency cases on a “no win-no fee” basis. This means that you pay only after we have won the case or recovered the claim.