773-365-0040
Injuries from dog bites can vary based on the dog’s size and the location of the bite, but all injuries have the potential to be very serious and lead to thousands of dollars in medical bills and lost wages. Some of the most common dog bite injuries are:
- Puncture wounds. Dogs’ teeth are designed to allow them to protect themselves, but this means that they can do a great deal of damage to a person when they bite. Sharp front teeth can sink into the flesh of an arm or leg, leaving a painful puncture wound.
- Broken bones. Because of their powerful jaws, aggressive dogs can easily break bones when they bite. Though small bones, like in the hand, are more vulnerable to this type of injury, even the large, strong bones of the arms and legs can be broken if the dog’s jaw is large and powerful enough.
- Nerve damage. Often occurring because of the pressure and force of the bite, nerve damage is usually caused by tissue compression. Some nerve damage will heal, but it can have permanent repercussions, impairing a victim’s sensation and movement.
- Lacerations and contusions. Cuts and bruises will usually heal in a matter of time, but they can be tremendously painful, and they may even require a victim to take time off from work or school.
- Infection. A dog’s mouth harbors bacteria that could lead to severe infection and inflammation. Additionally, rabies is always a concern in a dog bite, and victims should always check the dog’s vaccination records as soon as possible to be sure its rabies shots are up to date.
- Scarring. The deep wounds left by dog attacks can lead to permanent scarring, which could change a victim’s quality of life—especially if the scar is on the face. Expensive surgery may be required.
After a dog attack, you need an attorney on your side to fight for you and the compensation you need. To schedule a consultation with a dog bite attorney at Shea Law Group in Chicago, call (773) 365-0040 today.
