Dogs may be man’s best friend, but that doesn’t mean they won’t attack. Even the smallest and friendliest animal can potentially be dangerous. A bite can be extremely painful and may result in long-term complications. You will need to act fast to administer first aid and seek medical attention to prevent complications. If this has happened to you, you should also take steps to preserve your legal rights.
Contact a Salamati Los Angeles personal injury lawyer. Our firm can thoroughly evaluate your case and examine all applicable evidence to determine if you have a claim for compensation.
Common types of dog bite injuries
A dog’s teeth are quite sharp, making the animal capable of inflicting considerable damage. The most common body parts to be targeted include the hands, arms, legs, face, and head. Facial injuries are particularly common, and dogs may also attack the throat—other examples include the following:
- Deep lacerations
- Soft tissue damage
- Tendon and ligament damage
- Crush injuries of the bones
- Nerve damage near the bite
It’s also possible to suffer broken or dislocated bones, especially if the victim is knocked over. They may also report back injuries, such as disc herniation, and even the loss of body parts like the eyes. The treatment may be extensive, involving hospitalization, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation therapies.
Dog bite complications: what to watch out for
As traumatic as the initial injuries may be, they are not the only issues facing a victim. These bites are notorious for leading to secondary health complications. In particular, an infection can develop, triggered by the transfer of germs from the dog’s mouth to the wound– including tetanus, cellulitis, blood infections, and even dog bite rabies.
Seek immediate medical care after an attack and inform your healthcare provider about whether you have an up-to-date tetanus vaccine. You should return to the hospital if you notice any potential signs of infection, such as worsening pain, swelling, reddening of the wound, or unusual discharge.
In addition to the physical complications– it’s possible to develop mental anguish and trauma. If you’re experiencing flashbacks or ongoing nightmares, or if you have trouble adjusting to life, you may have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Consider speaking with a mental health counselor.
Contact the Salamati Law Firm after a dog attack
The Salamati Law Firm has defended the rights of accident victims in Southern California for two decades. Our dog bite attorney in Los Angeles can review your case to determine how best to pursue compensation on your behalf.
Our legal team is committed to producing a favorable result for your case by applying effective legal strategies—culled from our extensive courtroom experience and in-depth legal knowledge. Get in touch today to schedule your free consultation.
