Binghamton Dog Bite Attorneys

There are 83 to 88 million dogs in the U.S., according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). More than 48 million households have at least one dog. With the pet population still on the rise, the incidence of dog bites is likely to increase.

How Do You Know When a Dog Is Aggressive?

Aggressive behavior in a dog can begin with warning signs and culminate in an attack, as stated by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). A dog showing aggression to a person may:

• Become rigid and very still
• Bark with a guttural, threatening sound
• Lung forward or charge without making contact
• Muzzle punch (the dog uses its nose to punch a person)
• Growl
• Show teeth
• Snarl or snap
• Nip quickly without leaving a mark
• Bite quickly, tearing the skin
• Bite hard enough to cause a bruise
• Bite to cause puncture wounds
• Bite rapidly and repeatedly
• Bite and shake

What Types of Injuries Do Dog Attacks Cause?

Dogs that attack can cause severe injuries, particularly in young children. Common dog attack injuries include:

• Puncture wounds
• Fractured bones
• Facial injuries
• Eye injuries
• Head and neck injuries
• Nerve and tissue damage
• Scarring and disfigurement

What Is the Risk of Infection with Dog Bites?

When dog bites puncture the skin, it presents a serious risk of infection. Approximately 50% of dog bites introduce bacteria into the body, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic. These bacteria may include streptococcus, staphylococcus, Pasteurella, and capnocytophaga. Unvaccinated and feral dogs can potentially transmit rabies to humans when they bite.

Are Some Dog Breeds More Likely to Bite than Others?

Any dog can bite, according to AVMA. It is the individual history and behavior of the dog that determines whether it will bite, not the breed. However, a recent study identified the breeds that bite the most, as stated in an article published by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). These breeds include:

• Pit bull
• Mixed breed
• German Shepherd
• Terrier
• Rottweiler

Breeds least likely to bite were found to include Dalmatian, pointer, Great Dane, Pekingese, and Spitz.

Will Homeowners Insurance Cover Dog Bites?

If you have been bitten by a friend or neighbor’s dog, you will be happy to know that dog bites are covered under most homeowners insurance policies. Personal liability and medical payments coverage applies when a homeowner’s dog bites someone. However, certain dog breeds may be excluded from coverage, or they may require purchase of higher liability limits.

How Do You Recover Compensation for Dog Bites in Binghamton?

After an attack by a dog, the animal’s owner may be held liable for your injuries. Dog owners are strictly liable for medical expenses resulting from injuries caused by their animals under New York law. If you can prove the dog owner was negligent, you may be able to recover compensation for other damages, such as lost wages, loss of earning potential, scarring and disfigurement, and pain and suffering. Each case is unique. Our Binghamton dog bite attorneys can tell you what damages you may be entitled to claim.

Why Choose Us?

At Horn Wright, LLP, we have a passion for justice, a reputation for excellence, and a history of success representing injured people. Our Binghamton personal injury attorneys are committed to putting your best interests first. We provide creative solutions and results-driven representation. Our trusted team of attorneys use evidence in the most effective manner possible and work diligently to secure positive results.

If you or your child has sustained severe dog bite injuries, contact us at (607) 600-2748 to schedule a free consultation. We can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.