Tennessee Children at Risk of Dog Bite Injuries

Children often do not realize that dogs can be dangerous. By nature, children are trusting and are not hesitant to approach these animals, which is why they have the highest rate of dog-bite injuries. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children ages 5 to 9 years sustain the most dog-bite related injuries than any other age group. Also, the CDC reports that children are more likely than adults to require medical attention for their dog bite injuries.

Why do dogs bite?
Dog attacks have become prevalent due to the close proximity of dogs to people. It has become commonplace to see dogs at parks, beaches, outdoor shopping malls and sporting events. As the number of dogs has increased in public areas, so have the number of dog attacks.

People frequently treat their dogs as if they are their own offspring. They sometimes fail to remember that dogs are animals and every canine has the potential to bite. Dogs bite for a variety of reasons and even the most passive dog can attack. When a dog is fearful, territorial, sick, injured, hungry or aggressive, the chances of an attack increase. Most dogs give warning signs that they are about to attack, but many children fail to recognize these signals and therefore sustain some of the worst dog bite injuries.

Who is responsible for dog bite injuries?
The dog’s owner can be held liable when their canine causes dog bite injuries, especially if the person made the dog attack the victim or knew of the dog’s tendency to bite or exhibit aggressive behavior. Tennessee dog bite law allows dog bite victims to recover damages resulting from negligent dog owners. However, you have to prove that there was negligence. There are some exceptions when it comes to holding a dog owner liable for dog bite injuries.

You should consult with an experienced Nashville injury lawyer for advice regarding your case. The attorneys at Phillip Miller & Associates will be able to advise you on your best course of action. Call us today at 1-800-337-HURT (4878) or 1-615-356-2000 for a consultation.

Phillip Miller & Associates
631 Woodland Street
Nashville, TN 37206
Phone: (615) 356-2000
Fax: (615) 242-1739
Toll Free: (800) 337-HURT
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