Over 200,000 dog attacks happen in the UK each year, with 3,800 of them being serious enough to require treatment in the accident and emergency department of the local hospital. Although a dog can attack anyone, young children are at a heightened risk. Unfortunately we have seen too many cases in the news recently of children suffering horrific injuries – and in some cases fatalities - at the hands of dog attacks. The Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991 requires owners of certain breeds to register their pets and follow strict guidelines in keeping them. Failure to do so can result in prosecution. These breeds include Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Agentinos and Fila Brazillieros - the Japanese, Argentinean and Brazilian Mastiff respectively.
Why not contact us and learn how we can help you claim compensation for your dog attack injuries.
The physical and psychological effects of a dog attack can be horrific. Physical injuries can include skin lacerations and punctures, tissue loss, fractured bones, scarring, nerve damage and infection. Psychological effects are common too, especially amongst children. Conditions such as phobia development and post-traumatic stress disorder can occur, as well as conditions brought on by physical scarring such as depression.
It is important to note that although dog attack compensation claims are not that easy to make, they can be successful if certain criteria is met. In most successful cases it is proved that the dog had some history of aggression that the owner should have known about. This can include a previous dog bite incident that was reported to the police, and it is for this reason important that all dog bites are reported. If the owner fails to control a dog with an aggressive history in public then they can be held legally liable. The exception to this rule is when the breed of dog involved is one that is listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act above. The nature of these breeds means that they are required to be constantly muzzled in public. Any attack by these breeds and the owner is most likely liable.
What to do if you have been attacked by a dog
Below is a list of steps to take if you have been involved in a dog attack:
- Identify the dog owners name and address
- Take the name and address of any witnesses
- Report the incident to the police – you may not be the first victim, even if you are you may be helping future victims.
- Have your injuries inspected by a medical professional immediately, photograph them too.
If your claim is successful then the dog attack compensation awarded will be paid out by either the owners’ pet or home insurance policy. In some cases it may be possible to make a claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority depending on the circumstances. If you have been the victim of a dog attack then please call today for our free and confidential advice. We are skilled professionals who have handled many cases like yours, providing victims with compensation for their injuries. At Ashley Ainsworth we operate on a strict no win no fee basis ensuring that victims can make dog bite compensation claims without the worry of financial risk.
Dog bite compensation solicitor
Call 08000 93 33 93 or contact us now and talk to one of our team about your dog attack injuries.
At Ashley Ainsworth we have vast experience in dealing with animal attack claims. We can provide you with a top no win no fee personal injury UK solicitor who specialises in the field. They have helped many people before and know exactly the best course of action to get you the compensation package you are entitled too.
Read some examples of successful personal injury compensation claims at Ashley Ainsworth here.
