A five-year-old North Little Rock boy was viciously attacked recently by four dogs, including a Rottweiler and a pit bull. These are two of the most dangerous breeds of dogs and parents generally know to keep children away, unless the dogs are familiar with the children. In this case the child suffered a deep cut to his eye and his ear was severely damaged, among other injuries. Shockingly, the dangerous dogs belonged to the boy’s grandmother.
Dog bites are a growing problem
While pet ownership is on the rise, this also means an increase in accidents involving man’s best friend. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the number of people admitted to hospitals due to dog bites increased by 86 percent over a 16- year period. This means approximately 26 people each day are rushed for medical care because of dog bites, with young children and seniors at the highest risks. People in rural areas also are four times more likely to be injured by dog bites than those in urban areas.
Lasting damage
Unfortunately, over half of all dog bites require stitches, skin grafts or other procedures. Many of these wounds leave permanent scars and cause mental anguish that lasts long after the physical pain has subsided. In certain instances, infections and blood poisoning result, which bring with them their own sets of complications and medical issues.
Who is liable when dogs bite?
In Arkansas, owners are responsible for the actions of their pets, which means that they must pay when their dogs injure others. There is one caveat, however, as Arkansas has a one-bite rule which means victims can generally only recover if the owner knew or should have known about the dangers their dog posed. Generally, this knowledge comes from a previous bite or attack.
If you or your loved ones have been the victims of dog attacks, call a compassionate lawyer who can provide assistance filing a lawsuit.
