Free Consultations 24/7
Home > Blog > Stay Safe This ...
Dog bites can result in very serious injuries such as compound fractures, facial lacerations, nerve damage, and deep puncture wounds, not to mention the emotional trauma that often accompanies a dog bite incident. One should seek medical help immediately after a biting incident to reduce the risk of serious complications. Dogs carry harmful infections in their saliva, and their bites can cause transmission of rabies and other diseases.
Luckily, according to a survey done by the Ohio Department of Health, there have been no dog-caused rabies cases in Ohio since 2016, but bites are still prevalent. It is important to be aware of the causes and factors that increase dog bite incidence and how to avoid them to ensure personal safety.
Dogs often bite if they feel threatened or are provoked, and the likelihood of this behavior is increased when a dog interacts with an unfamiliar person. That said, dogs can bite for no apparent reason. Because of dogs’ unpredictability, it is important to keep in mind these tips to avoid a bite attack:
According to the Ohio Department of Health, there were 15,358 dog bite incidents reported in Ohio in 2020. Although this number does not seem large in proportion to Ohio’s population, dog bites are the fifth most common reason for someone to go to the emergency room.
The first and most essential step to take if a dog bites you is to seek medical treatment immediately, because dog bite wounds can be very serious or even fatal. In 2017, Ohio had 4 dog bite-related fatalities (the highest number in any state for that year). Additionally, documenting the wound is an important step to take after being bitten. Going to a hospital or seeking medical attention provides proof of injury, which is imperative to build a successful case against the dog’s owner if the victim wants to assign liability and receive compensation. You should also report the incident to animal control so the dog can be evaluated for any diseases or behavioral issues. In some cases, a dog will be put down after biting someone. Finally, contact an attorney to build your case against the dog’s owner.
Throughout our years of experience, we have handled a variety of cases and we’re confident that we can help you too. We have the knowledge of the law, the power of a trained investigation team, and the skills to present your case with accuracy. You don’t have to handle your case alone. Our Cleveland personal lawyers are here to help. Call (216) 621-2300 or complete a free initial consultation form.
May
06, 2024
If you were recently injured at work and are thinking about applying for workers’ compensation benefits, it’s important to document your journey. Doing so not only helps you organize your case, but it can also maximize your chances of getting approved for benefits, especially if you decide to hire an Ohio workers’ compensation lawyer to […]
Apr
29, 2024
Although Ohio isn’t one of the seven states in the U.S. that requires doctors to carry medical malpractice insurance, most doctors who practice in the Buckeye State have it anyway. That’s because they’re often required to carry it by the hospitals or clinics they work for, or because they simply want to protect themselves if […]
22, 2024
Medical malpractice claims are often difficult to win, and the difference between strong claims and weak claims is evidence, especially medical records. If you believe you’re a victim of medical malpractice, your medical records will be vital for building your case against the doctor, hospital, or clinic that you believe harmed you. These documents not […]
18, 2024
Injuries caused by auto accidents are painful, expensive, and can even be life-altering. When victims survive car accidents, they want to believe that the worst is over. But for some, the medical and financial consequences are just beginning. Shock is not just a term for being surprised or upset. It is an actual medical condition […]
15, 2024
The widespread availability of fast internet access and camera-equipped laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones mean that telemedicine and virtual doctor appointments are more convenient, personal, and effective than ever before. These types of visits became more and more common during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and for many patients, they have continued to be […]
Accessibility Tools