Dogs bite 4.7 million people in the United States each year.  Although many don’t require medical attention, a growing number of victims need to visit their local emergency rooms because of severely traumatizing injuries.  Even though dogs are a familiar face in many American homes, even the best behaved dog can be dangerous in the wrong situation.

There are various reasons dogs bite people.  Dogs have been companions for human beings for thousands of years, and while many breeds are well socialized and adjusted to living within society, they still have primitive base instincts that cannot be completely overcome with any amount of discipline or training. 

Although any dog is potentially dangerous, there are some breeds that are more likely to attack than others.  Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Akitas are common dogs found in homes throughout homes in America, and are also responsible for some of the most horrific injuries imaginable.  Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, and are bitten on the face more than any other part of the body.

Nearly 1000 people seek emergency medical treatment every day in this country due to dog bites, which has prompted some experts to label these incidents as an “epidemic.”  As the number of dog bites continues to increase proportionally with the number of dogs in the United States, new statistics will likely reflect the misery and pain caused by dog bites in the coming years.

If you or someone you know was a victim of a dog bite, you need to contact an experienced dog bite lawyer immediately.  Even minor bites that may seem harmless can develop into serious conditions if left untreated.  Act quickly, for California has strict guidelines about how long you have to pursue legal action, so the sooner you act the sooner you can get the compensation you deserve.