What should you do if a dog attacks you?

Do not kick or punch the dog if at all possible (that might escalate in their arousal). Once the attack is over, immediately get yourself, your dog or your child away. Once you are away from the situation, check you bite.  Call the police or 911 to report the dog bite (don’t let the owner tell you to not call the police “you will be ok”).  Use your phone and take a picture of the injury and the dog if you can do so.  Get the owner’s basic information if you can, such as name, address, phone, email, name of dog, name of vet.  Lastly, call Krupp law Offices for immediate free consultation on your claim.

What breed of dog has killed the most humans?

The Pit Bull is responsible for the most fatal attacks in the U.S. by far, killing 284 people over that 13-year period – 66 percent of total fatalities. That’s despite the breed accounting for just 6.5% of the total U.S. dog population.

Does workers comp cover dog bites?

Yes, if you are attacked by a dog while working, worker’s compensation will cover your injuries.  You maybe able to recover more as a dog bite claim.  In Michigan, you can get compensated for pain and suffering in a dog bite case.  You can not get pain and suffering in a worker’s comp claim.

 

 

Do you need to get a tetanus shot after a dog bite?

A dog bite could lead to wound infection, tetanus, or rabies that could come from either the saliva of biter, skin flora of victim, or the environment.  If  a dog bites you, you should immediately call animal control and seek medical attention.  They will get the dogs vet records to determine the proper course of action.

Why do dogs suddenly bite?

Some medical conditions can cause dogs to become aggressive. If a dog that has never shown any sign of aggression suddenly begins growling, snapping, or biting, it may be caused by a disease or illness. Pain is an especially common cause of aggression in dogs.  You should always be careful in approaching a dog that you are not familiar with.  Ask the owner if it is ok to interact with the dog.  If the dog shows any sing of aggression, you should immediately retreat.

Who is liable for dog bites?

In Michigan, the dog owner is strictly liable for dog bites if the injured person did not provoke the dog and the injured person was in a place he or she had a lawful right to be. Dog owner will be liable for victim’s bite injuries if they knew (or had reason to know) of their dog’s dangerous propensities.  You can collect medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages if you have been bitten by a dog.

What dog breeds are not covered by homeowners insurance?

Each insurance company is different.  Some homeowner’s insurance will ask about dogs in their initial application but they do not on renewals.  There are some dog breeds that insurance companies require a separate policy.  They are   Pit bull, Rottweiler,Chow chow, Presa Canario, Akita, Doberman Pinscher, Wolf hybrids, and Mastiff.

Is a dog bite settlement taxable?

No, dog bite settlements are typically not taxable.  They are not income.

What to do if your dog bites you and breaks the skin?

If a dog bites you, press on the wound gently to cause some bleeding to help flush out as much bacteria as possible.  Next, wash the wound with mild soap and water.  Next, slow the bleeding with a clean cloth and apply over-the counter antibiotic cream if you have it.  Go to urgent care to have medical experts check the bite.

Are you responsible if your dog bites someone?

Yes, In Michigan, strict liability applies to dog bites unless there is provocation.  That is why it is critical that dog owners have insurance.