Dogs are a unique species. They’re smart enough to shake, roll over, and fetch. Dogs protect our children and us from intruders. How many times have we stopped for an “aww” moment scrolling through Facebook when we see a cute puppy and baby sleeping together? Dogs are wonderful pets. Still, even the friendliest and most protective pets can hurt those we love.
Dog bites are a problem. There are too many tragic news stories that start with a sleeping baby and family dog and end with the dog inexplicably mauling and killing the child. A dear friend of mine had a similar story that almost ended tragically.
While she was visiting her neighbor, her six-month-old baby boy played on a blanket on the floor. The baby innocently grabbed at the dog’s toy. The night ended with her baby being bitten severely in the face and head.
Her son lived. Today he is a happy ten-year-old boy who excitedly told me about his holiday and all the presents he received. It’s not something you notice at first glance, but look closely, and you can still see the bite marks along his jaw, temple, and cheek.
Injuries from dog bites are, unfortunately, all too common. The attorneys at Shenderovich, Shenderovich, & Fishman P.C. have extensive experience with dog bite and personal injury cases. When you need a personal injury lawyer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, call Shenderovich, Shenderovich, & Fishman. Our highly sought team will secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today.
Dog Bites Are a Greater Health Risk for Children
According to the CDC, 50% of dog bite victims are children. Dog bites threaten children more than the mumps, whooping cough, and the mumps combined. When we think of all the ways our children are injured daily, we count bike accidents, mopeds, skateboards, hoverboards, and falling off the monkey bars. However, dog bites are far more common in children.
If we break down the numbers:
- There are 2,400 dog attacks every day
- 100 dog attacks each hour
- In the latest reporting year, there were approximately 800,000 dog bites that required medical attention.
Dogs bite. It’s in their nature. We never know what could set them off. Maybe the neighbor’s dog is old and doesn’t want to share his toy with the baby. Perhaps the usually friendly dog down the road gets spooked and bites the closest thing to him, your child. Whatever the circumstance, dog bites are common. Let’s educate our children on how to be safe around dogs, even ones they know.
Why You Need Representation
If a dog has bitten you or your child, the case is never as simple as you think. Liability can be challenged. For example, what if the dog owner claims your child was teasing the dog at the time of the attack? Liability could be shifted onto your child as well as the dog owner. What if the insurance company minimizes its responsibility and refuses to cover all the medical bills due to shared liability? A personal injury lawyer in Pittsburgh will protect you from being taken advantage of by the insurance company’s tactics.
Conclusion
If you or someone you love has been injured as the result of a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation to cover:
- Medical Bills
- Loss of earnings if you are unable to work
- The estimated cost of future medical care
- Household expenses
Call your personal injury attorney in Pennsylvania today at Shenderovich, Shenderovich, & Fishman P.C. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 888-988-9467.