Dog bites can create several different types of medical expenses. The person bitten might have open wounds that require stitches. They might break a bone due to the force of the attack or a fall that occurred because a dog became aggressive.
A person with a dog bite is at risk of a serious infection caused by the bacteria in the dog’s mouth that could be exacerbated by the shape of the bite wound. They may also have an increased risk of disfiguring or functionally-limiting scars developing around the bite injury. The cost of treating such scars may go well beyond what the injured person initially anticipates.
Dog bites cause major tissue damage
The damage caused by a dog bite attack is more serious than the break in the skin. The force of the bike can cause crush damage to nearby tissue, affecting muscles, connective tissue and even nerves.
The extent of the damage can cause very significant scar tissue to form. Treatment for disfiguring scars on the hands, face or neck could include laser procedures, skin grafts and other surgical interventions.
The cost of addressing a disfiguring dog bite scar could add up to tens of thousands of dollars in some cases. People with visible dog bites may need assistance evaluating their injuries and negotiating with insurance providers to secure adequate compensation.
It is unfortunately relatively common for dog bite survivors to underestimate the damage their bite will cause and the cost of the care that they will require. Working with a personal injury attorney can help dog bite victims understand the compensation available to them and estimate their total losses more accurately.