Why Dog Bites are So Common and How to Avoid Them. From a Lawyer for Dog Bites

According to insurers and medical facilities, dog bite claims and hospitalizations are on the rise across the country. Why are these preventable tragedies increasing, and what can you do to avoid becoming a victim? Read on to find out.

Top reasons for dog bites

1. Strangers approaching the dog. In many situations, this is unavoidable, such as when a postal worker or delivery person must come onto private property in making their rounds. In other circumstances, guests are seriously injured in dog attacks by someone’s pet that is poorly trained or simply out of control.

If a protective dog isn’t used to seeing a person on a daily basis, they may interpret them as an intruder and a threat, plain and simple.

2. Predatory instinct. Like all hunters, dogs naturally have a drive to chase prey. This instinct is often activated when they see a runner or cyclist going past. Many times, these individuals can’t move quickly enough to get away from the dog, either because the dog is faster, or because the terrain (such as hills or wet, slippery roads) makes it impossible.
3. Because of irresponsible owners. This is very likely the number one reason for dog bites across the county. When dogs are untrained, unrestrained, and unsupervised, it’s a recipe for disaster – even if the dog has never bitten someone before. Leaving a dog alone and untethered in a yard – or worse, allowed to roam free – puts the general public at risk.

If you don’t want to be a victim of a dog bite, try to avoid approaching dogs you don’t know. If a dog starts to chase you, stand still and face the dog, but do not make eye contact. If the dog knocks you over, curl up in a ball and cover your head with your hands. Finally, if you were bitten by a dog with an irresponsible owner, consider contacting an attorney and pursuing compensation for your injuries.

Talk to an experienced lawyer for dog bites

Would you like more information about Florida dog bite laws? Our firm may be able to help. Contact Abrahamson & Uiterwyk 24 hours a day / 7 days a week at 1-800-538-4878. Call us today for a free evaluation.