Too Many Dog Bite Victims in California

September 07, 2012 (Press-News.org) Too Many Dog Bite Victims in California

Dogs and dog owners are not all the same. And something similar can be said of dog bite cases. People rarely think the neighbor's dog with the mild disposition will bite, while many people believe an irresponsible owner's aggressive dog will hurt someone at any time.

Pets are still animals and pet owners should be held responsible when pets cause harm. California residents experience the breadth and depth of dog bite injuries every year, and too often the victims of dog bites in California are children.

Dog bites are serious injuries. Last year 33 people died from dog bite injuries, and of those deaths, 20 were young children. Children more often than not are the victims of dog bite injuries and every year children account for more than 60 percent of those injured by dog attacks. Unfortunately, dog bites are far too common in our state.

A review of insurance claims filed and paid out is one way to assess the frequency of dog attacks in California. According to insurance company State Farm, California leads all states in dog bite claims made and paid. In 2010, there were 369 dog bite claims filed with State Farm Insurance in California and the company paid out $11.3 million in claims in the state. Dog bite accidents are also growing across the country. Insurance claims paid out by State Farm nationally have grown at least $12 million over the last five years.

Even though dogs are fun to have as pets, a dog bite may happen at any time. To reduce your chance of getting bit, follow these guidelines:
-Never approach an unfamiliar dog that is tied with a leash, behind a fence or in a car.
-Always let a dog, even a familiar one, see you and smell you before you pet it.
-Never disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, chewing on a toy or caring for puppies.
-Never turn your back and run away from a dog because a dog is naturally inclined to chase you.
-Always be cautious around unfamiliar dogs.

If you think a dog may attack, take the following steps:
-Do not scream or run away.
-Do not move and remain motionless with hands at your side and avoid eye contact with the dog.
-When the dog loses interest, slowly back away until the dog is no longer in sight.
-If the dog attacks, "feed" the dog any item you can put between yourself and the animal such as a coat or purse.
-If you fall to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer to review your case.

Article provided by Law Office of Reuben J. Donig
Visit us at http://www.doniglaw.com