By Pendergast Law on April 12, 2016
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that well over 100,000 people are treated for dog bite injuries every year. Any one who’s suffered a dog bite knows that dog bites can cause serious damage and lingering physical and emotional trauma. This is especially true in young children, who are at the highest risk for a dog bite.
Here are the most common types of injuries that result from a dog bite:
Lacerations
Lacerations occur when soft tissue is torn in a dog bite. Cuts are a common type of laceration injury. In a dog bite, they typically occur when the dog’s teeth tear at the skin. A laceration may be shallow, affecting only the top layer of skin, or may break through the skin entirely and into the muscle beneath. Any laceration is likely to be contaminated with bacteria. Deep lacerations often require stitches.
Puncture Wounds
A puncture wound is typically caused by a sharp, pointy object – like a dog’s teeth. Instead of cutting across the skin, the wound goes downward, into the body. They tend to bleed less than lacerations, and their small surface area can make them seem less harmful. However, because they go deep, puncture wounds are at a high risk of harboring bacteria that can lead to infection.
Infections
A dog’s mouth, like any animal’s, carries a host of bacteria that can cause infection after a dog bite. The bite may also transmit other diseases or infections, so it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you don’t believe the bite is serious.
Contact an Experienced Seattle Dog Bite Attorney
Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. have been there for many people who’ve suffered serious dog bite injuries. Let us help you pursue a settlement that helps you cover medical bills, pain and suffering, and any wages you may have lost from missing work. Contact our Seattle dog bite lawyers today at 888-539-9211.