Hundreds of children are bitten by a dog every day. If fact, kids are far more likely to be attacked than adults are, with 3.2 to 1 odds that a person attacked by a dog will be a child. Attacks are so prevalent that half of all kids will be bitten before their twelfth birthday, though kids between the ages of five and nine are most likely to be injured in an attack. Thankfully, most of the attacks do not cause lasting damage, but quite a few parents of child dog bite victims do find themselves with mounting medical bills and traumatized kids who need extra TLC as they recover.
Be Sure to Get Medical Treatment Right Away
When children are bitten by a dog, it’s not always easy to assess the damage. Even if the skin is not broken, bruising, broken bones, damaged muscles, and other “invisible” damage may occur. Moreover, puncture wounds and tears can easily become infected and often require stitches, so it’s always a good idea to have your son or daughter examined by a physician to help ensure he or she recovers as quickly as possible. Documentation from the initial medical visit may also be used as evidence if you file a claim later.
Parents of Child Dog Bite Victims Should Gather Evidence and Witness Statements
In Philadelphia, children bitten by a dog may need to prove that the attack was not provoked in order to receive compensation for all damages. For this reason, it’s important to get statements from witnesses when things are still fresh in their minds. You should also take photographs of any injuries and of the area where the attack happened.
Children Bitten By a Dog Often Experience PTSD
The emotional trauma of being attacked often leave children with PTSD and PTSD-like symptoms. It’s common for younger kids to be weepy or cry for seemingly no reason in the days and months following an attack. They may become fearful of all pets, of the place where they were attacked, and more. Parents of child dog bite victims can help their kids recover by being patient and giving them the opportunity to express their concerns and fears. Counseling and other forms of mental health treatments may be necessary following an attack as well.
Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer
Parents of child dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation for their child’s medical expenses, the time they’ve spent away from work, for pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and more. However, the state of Pennsylvania minimizes what you’re entitled to if the injures were not considered serious. Even if you are considering settling with an insurance company, it’s important to have your case reviewed by an experienced attorney to ensure you and your child are being treated fairly. You may find it’s in your best interests to file a claim if your child was seriously injured or if he or she will require extensive care following an attack. Throughout the pages of this site, you’ll find the profiles of competent and skilled Philadelphia dog bite attorneys who are glad to review your case at no cost to you. Please review the profiles and schedule your no-obligation consultations today.
