When you go a friend’s home or you go for a walk through your neighborhood, you probably are not thinking about suffering from a dog bite. In reality, you may be at a higher risk for a dog bite than you realize, even when around dogs who are familiar with you. There are certain situations during which dogs may be more likely to bite, and you would be wise to learn how to recognize when you might be in danger.
Dog bites can cause significant physical damage and emotional trauma, especially for children. Many bite-related injuries require medical attention, continued care and, sometimes, reconstructive or plastic surgery. Victims of dog bite incidents in Georgia have the right to seek financial compensation through a civil claim against the pet owner.
Dangerous situations with dogs
It is normal to feel comfortable around dogs you know well. Perhaps you are at a family member’s home or you are walking with a friend as he or she is taking the dog out. You may not think that a normally docile and calm dog poses a threat, but that is not always the case.
Even the gentlest of dogs can do things that are out-of-character sometimes, including acting aggressively and biting. Contrary to popular opinion, dog breed actually has very little to do with a propensity to bite. A dog’s likelihood to bite depends largely on environment. There are times, however, when it is smart to avoid a dog completely in an effort to avoid accidentally provoking it. You may want to stay away when a dog is:
- Eating
- Sleeping
- Not feeling well
- Stressed or overwhelmed
- In unfamiliar territory
- With puppies
- Trying to hide or be in solitude
- Injured
Any dog can bite, regardless of breed, upbringing and normal disposition. After suffering from an attack, you may find it beneficial to seek medical help in order to understand the severity of the injuries and to avoid infection.
Who is to blame?
The dog owner may be liable for your injuries if he or she knew the dog was likely to act aggressively. He or she may also be liable if you hurt yourself in an attempt to avoid an attack. There are various complex legal issues at hand in dog bite cases, and you will find it beneficial to work with an attorney who is closely familiar with liability laws and personal injury cases.