While many people believe that their dogs are too loyal and sweet to pose any danger to others, this is not always true. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reported that dogs bite over four million people each year. Most of the victims are children, which makes serious injuries more likely. Moreover, dogs unfamiliar with people, animals or other environmental cues may be at risk of repeating such behavior.
On top of the physical ramifications of a dog bite, people are often unprepared for the accompanying costs. According to the III, the costs of dog bite claims went up by 39% between 2012 and 2021 in the United States. Here are some of the expenses that a person may have to deal with after a dog bite.
Treatment
Treatment for a dog bite can be costly. On top of the initial exam, the victim sometimes needs physical therapy, with each session ranging between $250 and $350 for an uninsured person. There are also medications that a person may have to take for pain, potential surgery for a severe injury, equipment for at-home therapy, etc.
Not only is there a physical aspect of dog bites, but emotional trauma can follow the victim for years after. Especially if it was a younger child who was bitten, the mental injury can be long-lasting.
Lost wages
Some dog bite victims cannot return to their jobs right after the incident. A person may be suffering from too much pain or may be unable to do even mildly physical work. Lost wages can pile up and wreck a person’s finances when this happens.
Dog bites can be an unintended financial setback for anyone. It’s important that whenever someone is attacked and bitten, they receive the care necessary to fully recover.