Dog owners are responsible for ensuring their pet does not bite or cause harm to anyone. However, even the friendliest dog breeds might unexpectedly turn aggressive. Dog bites can be severe enough to cause infections, lasting scars, or death.
If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation from the owner. Knowing the type of injury you suffered may help you understand its severity and strengthen your case.
Puncture wounds
Dog bites can cause puncture wounds if the dog’s teeth penetrate the skin. They can be small but deep enough to cause an infection, which can lead to lasting complications.
Laceration
A laceration is a severe cut on the skin that can also be deep enough to tear muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. It is best to ask a medical professional to clean and close the wound to prevent bacteria and reduce infection.
Broken Bones
Large dogs can possess enough jaw strength to break or crush human bones. Children are especially susceptible to bone fractures and crushing injuries because dogs can get closer and bite them more easily.
Avulsion
During an attack, an aggressive dog may rip or tear away skin or body parts such as the ear. This causes an avulsion injury and may require reconstructive surgery.
Scars
Any injuries you suffer from a dog attack, such as a laceration, avulsion, or puncture wound, can cause scarring. Some severe bite injuries can leave permanent scars that can only be treated with a skin graft or laser treatment.
Nerve Damage
A wound that causes nerve damage in the muscles may cause you to suffer sharp pains, temporary loss of bodily function, muscle twitching, and numbness. It is possible to repair nerve damage if it is treated immediately. However, symptoms of nerve damage do not always show up right away.
Rabies
Most dogs are vaccinated against rabies, but if you are attacked by one that is not, you should get checked immediately. Rabies infections can cause paralysis and difficulty speaking and can sometimes even be fatal.
Whatever your injury, seek medical treatment right away after a dog attack, and be sure to document everything. The court must consider all the circumstances surrounding the dog attack before awarding compensation. You may need to consult a lawyer to determine if you have a case.
about
Scott M. Blumen
Scott M. Blumen, Attorney at Law, APC offers personalized, results-focused legal help for injury and workers’ compensation cases in San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started is easy. If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident, car accident, construction accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, contact Scott Blumen Law today. Call (619) 439-1837 to discuss your situation and receive an honest assessment of your legal options.
Since 1989, Scott Blumen has helped thousands of injured individuals throughout San Diego. He is known for providing honest legal advice, straightforward communication, and experienced representation in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law. As a Certified Legal Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, he offers knowledge that many firms cannot provide.
Many injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Scott Blumen is prepared to advocate for your interests throughout the legal process and pursue the best possible outcome.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future medical care, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related losses. Every case is unique, and the available compensation depends on the facts of your claim.
California law places deadlines on filing both personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. Missing these deadlines could affect your ability to recover compensation. Contact Scott Blumen as soon as possible after an accident to discuss the time limits that apply to your case.
Yes, in certain situations. While workers’ compensation covers most work-related injuries, you may also have a separate personal injury claim if a negligent third party contributed to your accident, such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another driver. Scott Blumen has experience handling cases involving both types of claims.
Although you are not legally required to hire an attorney, having experienced legal representation can be extremely beneficial if your claim is delayed, denied, your benefits are disputed, or your injury is serious. Scott Blumen is a Certified Legal Specialist in California Workers’ Compensation Law and has over 30 years of experience helping injured workers.
Your health should always come first. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, report the accident if appropriate, gather photos and witness information when possible, and avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before speaking with an attorney. Prompt legal guidance can help protect your rights.
Scott Blumen represents clients in a variety of injury-related matters, including:
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Personal injury cases
- Car accidents
- Construction accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites and animal attacks
- Motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents
- Brain injuries
- Wrongful death cases
- Product liability claims
Most personal injury and workers’ compensation cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. This means you generally do not pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered on your behalf. During your consultation, Scott Blumen can explain how fees apply to your specific case.
The value of a case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, and how the injury has affected your daily life. Scott Blumen provides straightforward, honest assessments rather than unrealistic promises so you know what to realistically expect.
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence or suffered an injury while performing your job, you may have a valid legal claim. Every situation is different, so the best way to determine your options is through a consultation. Call Scott Blumen Law at (619) 439-1837 to discuss your case and receive an honest evaluation.
