Dog Bite Statistics
Dog Bite Report Shows Pit Bulls Caused Most Fatalities
A Washington dog bite victims’ advocacy group called DogsBite.org has released a three-year fatality study, which shows that 19 dog breeds have caused 88 fatalities in the United States. Top on the list of breeds that have caused the most damage are pit bulls, which apparently account for 59 percent of these deaths. Pit bulls are followed in their lethality by rottweilers, which accounted for 14 percent. This report by the non-profit organization covers a three-year period – from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2008. It analyzes data gathered from 88 dog bite incidents that killed someone in the United States.
There are also many other interesting details that emerge from this study. The report states that pit bulls commit the vast majority of off-property attacks that result in death. In Washington State and elsewhere, we have also seen that pit bulls very often tend to attack in packs, which can cause devastating injuries to the victim – even if he or she is an adult. When pit bulls attack in packs, it is very likely to result in a fatality. The study also states that pit bulls are just as likely to attack an adult as a child. In the three years that this study covers, pit bulls killed more adults (54 percent) than they did children (46 percent). The report shows that of the six victim age groups documented, the 55 and older age group sustained the most fatalities (26 percent) followed by the 2 to 4 age group (22 percent).
This report is a definite eye-opener. The fact that dogs can attack you when you are taking a walk in your own neighborhood or in a park is frightening. A dog attack can be not only physically traumatic, but also emotionally and psychologically devastating. Dog owners who do not act responsibly must be held accountable for their actions. If you have been injured in a dog attack, which was caused by a negligent dog owner, please contact the experienced Seattle personal injury lawyers with The Bernard Law Group for a free and comprehensive consultation. Please understand that you have legal rights, including the right to seek fair compensation for your injuries and loss. Kirk Bernard and his skilled legal team can help you.
