Protecting Yourself Against Dog Bites In Monterey

Dogs make great pets and provide companionship and protection for their owners. Considering how dog-friendly our community is, and the proliferation of dogs as service or emotional support animals, you can expect to see them in local parks, stores, restaurants, and other public places. Unfortunately, this can increase the risk of dog bite injuries in Monterey. Find out how to protect yourself and what to do if you are the victim of an attack.

Make Personal Safety A Priority When You Encounter Dogs In Public

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 4.5 million dog bites happen throughout the country each year. Considering the number of dog owners in our area, dog bites in Monterey pose serious risks.

Even a small dog can cause a serious amount of harm to victims. Scratches can leave scars and pose the risk of infection while penetrating bite wounds can impact muscles, tendons, or other soft tissues and may even lead to amputation. Facial injuries are also common in dog bite cases, resulting in permanent disfigurement.

To protect yourself, make personal safety a top priority any time you encounter a dog. Follow these tips:

• Never pet or approach a dog without asking the owner first;
• If you notice a dog’s ears up or their shackles raised, stop and back up slowly;
• Avoid running, which will likely only increase the odds of an attack;
• If a dog charges you, roll yourself into a ball and use your handbag, coat, or other items to protect your face.

If You Suffer Dog Bite Injuries In Monterey

Dog owners in Monterey are required to keep their dogs leashed and under control at all times in public. They are also prohibited from allowing their pets to run freely through neighborhoods and must post warning signs on the property, advising that a potentially dangerous dog is on the premises. When they fail to take these steps, and you or someone you love suffers dog bite injuries as a result, you have the right to hold the dog owner liable in a claim.

Under California dog bite laws, you may be entitled to compensation regardless of whether the dog bit anyone or showed aggressive tendencies in the past. To protect your rights, follow these steps:

• Notify the police immediately after an attack and make sure an incident report is filed;
• Provide a description of both the dog and the owner;
• Get medical attention for your injuries and follow all of your doctor’s instructions;
• Contact our Monterey dog bite lawyer to discuss your options in filing a claim.

Request A Consultation With Our Monterey Dog Bite Lawyer

You may be entitled to compensation for dog bites in Monterey through the owner’s property insurance or by filing a personal injury lawsuit. To get the total amount needed to recover from your injuries, reach out to the Allen Law Firm. Call or contact our Monterey dog bite lawyer online today to request a consultation.

Sources:

avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention

forbes.com/advisor/legal/personal-injury/california-dog-bite-law/#:~:text=In%20states%20with%20a%20one,property%20or%20when%20lawfully%20on