JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Dogs are often touted as man’s best friend. They are fiercely loyal to their owners, a comfort during difficult times, and a companion that is part of the family. But when a seemingly innocent family pet lashes out and severely bites, the results can be traumatic and life-threatening.

While it seems like a rare event, dogs bite nearly 4.7 million people a year, with nearly 20% being severe bites that require hospitalization, surgery, and even plastic surgery. With approximately 800,000 Americans seeking medical help annually for dog bite injuries, it is important to know how to react and what to do should you encounter a dog attack in Philadelphia.

The Philadelphia dog bite lawyers at Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo want to share some important tips for what to do when a dog bites and how to keep you and your loved ones safe from harm.  First and foremost, to help prevent these bites from occurring in the first place, do not provoke a dog, whether you know the dog or not. Smiling (bearing teeth) and taunting are often seen as common provocations for dog attacks. While you can do your best to ward off an aggressive dog, attacks still occur. The following are some important safety tips to help prevent you or your loved ones from being severely injured:

• Stay calm – animals can sense shifts in your mood and stature.
• Use commands to give the animal pause and allow you to back away.
• Don’t run – it will cause the dog to chase.
• Without sudden movement, cross your arms tightly across your body, tucking your hands into your sides.
• Stand in a non-threatening manner, to the periphery of the dog’s sight lines, not head-on.
• If a dog is biting a jacket, try to remove that layer of clothing and buy yourself time to get away from the dog.
• Back away as the dog loses interest in you.

While these safety tips can ward off serious injuries for many involved in a dog attack, some people are not so lucky. If a dog bite should occur, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. Take pictures of the wound and get contact information from any witnesses that saw the attack.

The Philadelphia dog bite attorneys of Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo have extensive experience with Pennsylvanians who have suffered dog bite injuries. Our skilled attorneys work hard to get you the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.  Fill out a contact form on this website or call our office today at 888-807-WORK for a free case consultation.