If you are around an unfamiliar dog, it is always safer to assume that it might be unfriendly. After all, a casual glance has no way of telling you the animal’s history, physical condition or temperament — all of which can determine a dog’s propensity to attack humans or other animals.
Below is some important information that can help you decipher a dog’s intent before interacting with it.
Pay Attention To Its Eyes
If eyes are the window to a person’s soul, they also are a giveaway into a dog’s mood. If the white of the eyes are visible, the dog is likely scared or uncomfortable, two indications that a bite is imminent.
Dogs also can give you a “hard” stare, as if daring you to take a step closer (to your peril). If you see this domineering stare, look away from its gaze while still monitoring the animal from your peripheral vision as you slowly back away.
Watch The Tail Carefully
Dogs communicate through their tails. Short-tail wriggles or sweeping, clear-the-coffee-table wags show joy and usually are signs that the dogs welcome interaction. But beware of dogs with tails down between their hind quarters. Those dogs are afraid, and some dogs are “fear biters,” particularly if they have been abused (as many rescues have been).
A dog with its tail held straight up, or stiffly waving back and forth is signaling aggression and should be given a wide berth.
Howls And Growls
Dogs howl for many reasons — distant sirens, communication, even loneliness. But few howls are displays of aggression. Alternatively, growls are typically the last resort of a dog before it bares its teeth to bite.
If you are bitten by an aggressive dog on private property, you may be able to hold its owner or other parties liable for your injuries and other damages.
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.
