Fatal Dog Attack Statistics

If you have suffered an attack or lost a loved one in a fatal dog attack on Long Island, contact Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P.

Overview of Dog Bite Statistics in the United States

Every year, dogs bite over 4 million people in the United States according to the study Human fatalities resulting from dog attacks in the United States, 1979–2005. Of those 4 million people, 6,000 to 13,000 people required hospitalization.

Fatal Dog Attacks

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions WONDER database, 226 people were killed from being bitten or struck by a dog from 2018–2021. Their dog bite related fatalities data shows a 131% increase in fatal dog attacks between 2018 and 2021.

Infants, Children, and Older Adults Are More at Risk

According to the CDC dog bite statistics, infants, children and older adults are more at risk of suffering fatal dog attacks. Infants under 1 year old have the highest risk of dying from dog bite injuries along with children younger than 14 years old and people older than 45.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. National Vital Statistics System, Mortality 2018–2021 on CDC WONDER Online Database, released in 2021. Data are from the Multiple Cause of Death Files, 2018–2021, as compiled from data provided by the 57 vital statistics jurisdictions through the Vital Statistics Cooperative Program. Accessed at https://wonder.cdc.gov/ucd-icd10-expanded.html on Feb 8, 2023 3:40:18 PM

Common Reasons Behind Dog Attacks

Dogs can attack for many reasons, including if they are startled, feel threatened, or if they are protecting something. It is also possible that a dog attack or dog bite could be caused by pain or discomfort. Dogs can also become aggressive due to improper training, lack of socialization, inadequate confinement, and poor animal control measures. Any of these scenarios of aggressive dog behavior can lead to dog bite fatalities.

How to Protect Yourself from Dog Attacks

To help protect yourself and your family from being attacked by a dog, you should always be wary of any animals that you do not know and keep your distance from them. Never approach an unfamiliar dog, as this can trigger a defensive response from the animal. When you are near someone else’s pet, it is important to remain still and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises. Make sure the dog’s owner gives you permission before you approach a dog to avoid dog bite related injuries.

Information from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

The AVMA has extensive information for dog owners, families, and people without pets about responsible pet ownership, how to prevent dog bites, and what to do if there is an incident. AVMA also suggests that people consult with a certified professional animal behaviorist to find out more about ways to ensure the safety of their family pet, as well as the safety of those around it.

Reasons to Avoid Approaching Family Dogs

They recommend that adults and children do not approach a dog if:

• the owner is not with the dog on the dog owner’s property or in a public space
• the owner has not given permission to pet the family dog
• a dog is eating or sleeping
• a dog is sick or injured
• a dog is with her puppies and seems protective or anxious about your presence near her puppies
• a dog is playing with a toy
• a dog is barking or growling or showing other aggressive behavior
• a dog is hiding or trying to be alone

Pay Attention to a Dog’s Body Language

It is also important to pay attention to a dog’s body language and be able to recognize signs of aggression, such as snarling, showing teeth, staring, or growling. If a dog looks tense and uncomfortable, it is best to back away slowly and give the animal space.

What to Do After a Dog Attack

If you have been attacked by a dog, it is important to seek medical attention right away. It is also recommended that you report the incident to your local animal control or police department so the animal’s owner can be held accountable for their pet’s behavior. Documenting a bite will help establish that the dog is dangerous and can help prevent future incidents. New York law requires you to report the bite immediately to local authorities.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

The most common injuries associated with a dog attack can include deep lacerations, broken bones, and infection. Other dog bite related injuries can include:

• Lacerations – when a dog bites, its teeth can cause deep cuts in the skin that may require stitches.
• Punctures – the force of a dog bite can cause puncture wounds, which can damage blood vessels and internal organs.
• Broken Bones – a powerful bite from a dog can result in broken bones or fractures.
• Infections – bacteria from the animal’s mouth can enter the wound and cause an infection.
• Emotional Trauma – after a dog attack, victims may also suffer from emotional trauma such as anxiety, depression, nightmares and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Head or Neck Injuries – if a dog bites an infant or a small child on the head or face and shakes, it can cause serious head and neck damage.
• Scars and Disfigurement – dog bites can cause scarring and disfigurement and may require extensive cosmetic surgery to repair.
• Dog Bite-Related Fatalities – tragically, severe dog bite injuries can lead to death, especially for infants, children, and older adults.

Get Legal Help After a Dog Bite

If you have been attacked by a dog in Long Island, it is important to get help from experienced attorneys like Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P., who can work with you to hold the animal’s owner liable for their pet’s actions and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. The attorneys at Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. have the experience and resources necessary to help you secure a favorable outcome in your case. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free consultation.

Legal Assistance Following a Dog Attack

If you have been attacked by a dog, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. An attorney can help you determine if the owner of the animal is liable for the attack and what compensation you may be entitled to. Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. is a Long Island based law firm that has experience in handling dog bite cases. Our attorneys are here to help make sure that you receive the justice and financial compensation you deserve after an attack. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case.

New York’s One Bite Rule

New York follows a “one bite” rule when it comes to dog bite liability. Under the rule, a dog’s owner can be held liable for an attack or injury their pet causes if they knew or should have known that their animal had aggressive tendencies. This means there needs to be a documented history of the dog’s behavior in order for the owner to be held liable. A prior bite is one way to show prior aggressive behavior, but is not the only way to do so.

If you are concerned about legal action after a fatal dog attack on Long Island, it is essential that you contact Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. We are experienced in working with dog bite victims and helping them pursue legal action against the responsible party.

Get Help at Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. for Long Island Dog Attacks

By understanding the common causes of dog attacks and knowing how to protect yourself, you can reduce your risk of being bitten by a dog. However, if you have suffered an attack or lost a loved one in a fatal dog attack on Long Island, contact Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. Our experienced dog bite attorneys will aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. We have the resources to investigate your case, collect evidence, and prove that the animal’s owner is liable for their pet’s behavior. We are here to make sure you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case.