Lodi Dog Attack: Update and Reminders
I’m Ed Smith, a Lodi dog bite attorney. The dog involved in the attack on a woman and her grandchild in Lodi on Wednesday, August 30, 2017, has been contained. The devastating attack by this animal resulted in the two victims suffering traumatic injuries. The attack has also drawn attention to many issues surrounding dog bites, including injuries, recovery and owner liability.
We would like to commend the Lodi Police for their actions in limiting the potential damage this animal might have caused in the community. We also want to salute the heroic young man who intervened on behalf of the two victims with his skateboard. Although he played down his heroics, this young man was instrumental in limiting the severity of the attack and , possibly, preventing a dog attack fatality.
We extend our thoughts and prayers for a full and speedy recovery to the two victims of the dog attack, who were treated at the UC Davis Medical Center. This incident highlights some important facts about dog bites and dog ownership for everyone:
Children are an Elevated Risk Group
Dog attack fatalities occur most frequently in small children who may simply lack the physical strength to disengage and flee the attack. Experts agree that small children should not be left unsupervised with dogs, even if the animal is a family pet. Although the dog involved in the Lodi incident may have been a stray, we do know that almost half of all dog bites involve an animal familiar to the victim. The effects of a dog bite are not limited to physical injuries, but also can include PTSD, especially in children. Stray dogs should be reported to the local authorities, as they have the resources and skill required to “pick up” strays. Loose dogs should be reported to the owner and, if applicable, the landlord.
All Dogs Can Bite
Yes, there are certain breeds more likely to be involved in bites and attacks. However, biting is a reactionary behavior for most dogs and its important to remember: all dogs can bite. Feral or stray dogs should be avoided at all times and aggressive behavior should be assumed. For these animals immunization status will probably not be known and a hostile encounter can result in severe injury and subsequent infection.
Choosing a Dog
Since half of all dog bites are from dogs with whom the victim is familiar- often a family pet- its important to evaluate what kind of dog is right for your family. Having two or more dogs can increase the risk of dog bites and introducing a child into a home with a dog elevates the risk of a dog bite. Nearly 4 million dogs are put up for adoption each year; if enough information is available, adopting a dog may be a good choice.
When the Worst Thing Happens
The first reaction has to be obtaining proper medical care. Dog bites can be serious and can also become infected. Once proper treatment has been received, a dog bite should be reported to the local authorities. Try to recall as much information as possible, such as location of encounter, size and type of dog, familiarity with the animal and owner’s name if known.
When to Seek Legal Counsel
There are time limits for filing claims involving dog bites. Remember, dog bite insurance claims occur on a regular basis and victims are entitled to seek compensation. The average insurance payout in a dog bite claim can reach $30,000. Attorneys with Dog Bite case experience are best suited to advocate for your rights, prepare your claim, and navigate the often complex legal process faced by dog bite victims. An experienced attorney can also determine if there is any criminal liability on the part of a dog owner.
Lodi Dog Bite Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Lodi Dog Bite Lawyer. Being attacked by a dog can leave a person with physical and emotional injuries. If you or a loved one have been bitten or injured by a dog, please call me at (209) 227-1931 or toll free (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice with no obligation. You can also reach me online at AutoAccident.com.
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Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons, Bull Terrier by Ivob. CC BY-SA 3.0
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