Being attacked by a dog can be one of the most horrifying experiences anybody can go through. The impact of the injuries sustained can be both physical and psychological for the individual. There have been many reports in recent years concerning dog attacks in the UK. Many of them involve certain breeds of dogs such as Pit Bull Terriers, and Rottweilers. Although these particular breed of dogs are more posed to be a threat to innocent bystanders, there have been many reports of attacks by other types of dogs too.

A dog attack compensation claim is more likely to succeed if the claimant can gather evidence to demonstrate the dog’s aggressive past tendencies. The dog in question may have a record of biting previous bystanders or family members. If this can be shown, then it more likely that the compensation claim will be won and the owner of the dog will have to pay compensation. The owner is responsible for the dog and it’s behaviour towards others. The dog should be particularly controlled and restrained if it has aggressive tendencies.

Young children should be particularly looked after as they are most at risk from a dog attack. They are often easy targets as their playful and innocent charm can lead dogs to take advantage. You should never leave your child alone with a dog, even if the dog has a history of being friendly. This is because dogs can sometimes be unpredictable too, and any sudden change in behaviour could lead to harm to the child.

According to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 certain breeds of dogs are required to be muzzled when in public places and micro-chipped. If you suffered an attack by a breed of dog covered by this act that was not muzzled, your claim is likely to succeed. This is even if the dog had not shown previous signs of aggressive behaviour.

How to avoid being attacked by a dog

If you happen to be near a dog which is growling at you and you feel an attack is imminent, there are some things you can do to alter the situation. Try to keep as still as possible and avoid looking directly at the dog. Hopefully the dog will eventually lose interest. Of course the natural reaction would be to run as fast as possible in the other direction. However this may only excite the dog into chasing you which could result in something ugly.

What to do if you have been bitten

Your fear may have gotten the best of you and made you run. However, you could not outrun the dog and you ended up being attacked. Or you may have been bitten some other way. Whatever the situation, you should strongly consider reporting the incident to the police or local authority, if only to prevent something like this happening to another innocent bystander. It is important that you seek medical attention straight away, even if the injury appears to be minor. Even a minor injury can become badly infected.

If you have been a victim to a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation. Our solicitors will assess your case and talk you through the process of making a claim.

Ayesha Salim , editor of the UK Lawyers Network, writes articles about accident claims, Personal injury Lawyer, accident claims, find a solicitor, legal, lawyer, law help advice, solicitors litigation