Chicago Dog Bite Attorneys - Article

Dog Bite Statistics

It's clear that dog bites are a problem in the United States. About two percent of the US population is bitten by a dog every year – that’s over four million people.

Of those injured, 800,000 seek treatment in a medical center, about half of them children. 386,000 of them requite a trip to the emergency room. Every year about sixteen people die from dog bite injuries, mostly children. Children between the ages of five and nine suffer the highest rate of dog bite injuries, with the likelihood decreasing as they age. Most children who are attacked by dogs suffer injuries to their heads and necks.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) offers advice on avoiding this kind of terrible accident. The most important rule is to never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog, even for a very short amount of time. Even a dog who is usually sweet can be provoked or frightened by an unexpected occurrence. Some high-energy dogs may severely injure small children while trying to play with them. Always be very cautious when small children are around animals.

If you are frightened by an unchained dog, walk away from it slowly. If you begin running, you will only provoke the dog into chasing you; that is their natural instinct.

If a dog begins to sniff you, stay still. Do not lean over the dog, which is a sign of dominance. Most likely the dog will determine that you are not a threat and leave you alone.

If you are attacked by a dog, cover your head and neck. If necessary, curl into a ball.

If you or a family member have been injured due to a dog owner’s negligence, contact Chicago dog bite attorneys Friedman & Bonebrake at (312) 466-8200.