On dog bites and other dog injuries… (Part 2) by Granny’s Mettle

On dog bites and other dog injuries… (Part 2) - by Granny’s Mettle

Dog bites are very common injuries for both adults and children. People bitten by a dog can have permanent disfigurement, psychological trauma, and worse, even death. It is therefore necessary to always provide great care when dealing with dogs, even those that are considered as pets.

Precautionary measures are provided by experts and medical practitioners to avoid getting bitten. However, when one gets dog bites, one should know his/her rights, especially when it comes to recovering damages.

If you or a family is bitten by a dog, you should:

… try to identify the dog. If the dog has rabies, it is important that you should seek medical care and get the appropriate vaccines against the rabies.

… not argue with the owner of the dog. Arguing won't do any good, especially when the owner doesn't want to believe what happened. Many owners believe in the goodness of their pets that's why it's hard for them to accept that their dog would bite without severe provocation.

… not sign any papers or make statements on record. The dog owner, property owner or their insurance company might try to get you to sign papers or record your statements on tape. Take note that their primary goal is to get you to make statements that will help in their cause to avoid possible liabilities for your injuries. If this happens, you should consider having a lawyer present to assist you.

… make a report to the police. Report the incident to the police and they will investigate the circumstances of the dog bite. They will then provide a report that may help establish the incident.

… seek medical care. The dog that bit you may have rabies. In that case, you will need appropriate vaccines to counter the effects of rabies. On the other hand, dog bites involve puncture wounds from fangs. These can be easily infected. Also, you may have scrapes and abrasions from protecting yourself during the attack. An infected wound can result in a worse scar, and even serious complications and consequences.

… consider consulting a lawyer. A reliable lawyer can help you get back your financial losses as well as the emotional and psychological effects from the injuries caused by the incident. Even if the insurance company offers to give you payment, it helps to have a lawyer review the proposed settlement. A lawyer you can trust can help you obtain a fair outcome.

The Law

Different laws on dog bite injuries are provided in different states. In Michigan, victims of dog bites can easily establish liability on the part of the owner. Under Michigan law, it doesn't matter if the dog has never bitten another person. There is no "free bite rule". Dog owners are liable even if it's the first time that they're dogs bit somebody.

On the other hand, people may also be injured even without getting bitten by a dog. An attack may cause injury through the dog's claws, when the person was knock over, or when the driver of a bicycle was upset by a dog. If injured, these individuals may file claims, and recover damages from the dog's owner.

Check your state's law for information on dog bites.

About the Author

For additional information and comments about the article you may log on to http://www.personalinjurydefenders.com

Top Picks!

Extraordinary dog supplies at great prices with fantastic customer service! Click Here

Save up to 70% off EntirelyPets Daily Deals!

Flea season is upon us. Don't let your pet catch the scratch, visit Petscriptions today! Click Here

UK Dog Owners Click Here to Browse the Petplanet.co.uk Pet Shop

Quick Links: Dog Toys : Pet Insurance(UK) :

Are You Really Ready For a Boxer Dog? - The answer is "no" if you are the type who mostly leave your dog on a chain. Boxers require much of your love, attention and companionship although they are easy to take care of. One Boxer-lover even said to never get one as pet if you work full time! Another point to consider is that the costs for food, training, grooming, medical care, toys and other supplies do add up.

Pet Peeve: Dogs Doing Business Where Not Wanted - We’ve recently moved into a new apartment complex that really is much like a resort. We don’t have to maintain the lawn, handle any maintenance problems, or deal with unruly neighbors. We can use the pool without having to clean and maintain it, we can work out in a gym without the added monthly expense, we can play pool without going to a bar, and we can enjoy many sports such as racquetball, tennis, volleyball, and basketball.

Want A Great Family Dog? - A breed of dog called a Boxer is very family-oriented and they always love to be around people. Treat them as family members. Never underestimate their need for human companionship, which is the most notable trait of this breed. The Boxer is happiest when it is with people. Its whole pelvis moves when a Boxer wags its tail in delight and exhilaration. It can adapt to any environment as long as it is with people. They love being with their "families" and don't like to be alone.

Why Does My Dog Have Bad Breath? - “Doggy breath” – that unpleasant odor emanating from the mouths of Rover and Boomer – can be a signal of serious health problems. A dog’s mouth is his primary means of contact with the world around him. He uses his mouth to eat, to investigate and to communicate. The jaws are a powerful tool used to grind, gnaw, crush and carry. Keeping this part of your pet’s body healthy is vital to his quality of life and longevity.

Quickstart Guide to Making Your Own Pet Food at Home - As a pet owner, no doubt you want to give your dog or cat the best care possible. And caring for your pet means feeding him the best diet you can. By making your own pet foods, you'll be saving money, up to 80%. And to top it off, it's easy; making pet food at home is probably a lot less time-consuming than you may have thought. With hundreds of websites offering free pet food recipes online, it's now easier than ever to make your own pet food.