Psychological Injuries from Dog Attacks

Dog bite attacks happen on a daily basis in the United States. There are approximately 1,000 of these incidents that take place each day in the country resulting in victims needing emergency treatment. Every year, well over 12,000 people will be hospitalized after a dog bite attack. Dogs of all sizes, but especially larger, more muscular breeds can inflict a tremendous amount of physical bodily harm when they bite. Their sharp teeth can tear skin and rip through muscle while their paws can cause scratches and lacerations. 

It is easy to understand how injuries from a dog attack can be extensive and if wounds are not attended to quickly, there is a high risk of infection. Still, dog bite incidents often do not only inflict physical injuries they can also cause a great amount of mental anguish and trauma. This is especially true for young children who are particularly vulnerable to suffering extensive injuries.

If you were injured by a dog, you may be able to take legal action against the dog’s owner for financial compensation. Florida dog bite laws allow for victims of dog attacks to hold pet owners liable for their resulting damages. Consulting with an attorney for help with a claim can be advantageous. The Tampa dog bite injury attorneys at Fulgencio Law can represent you in your suit.

Types of Psychological Harm After a Dog Attack

A dog bite incident can lead to considerable psychological harm. Victims of dog bite attacks may develop any of the following conditions:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

After being attacked by a dog the thought or memory of the incident can trigger great stress and emotional disturbance. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD can lead to problems sleeping, mood disorders, intense feelings of terror, and more. PTSD can degrade one’s quality of life.

Cynophobia

Cynophobia is an anxiety disorder that makes one fearful of dogs.

Poor Self-Confidence

If the wounds of a dog attack are disfiguring, it can cause a person to lose their self-confidence and can lead to feelings of despair and depression.

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is an anxiety affliction that can cause a dog bite victim to be fearful of any situation that they perceive could be scary. After a dog-bite incident, this could be anywhere that a dog may be. Considering the prevalence of dogs in America, this may cause a victim to shy away from daily life and become reclusive to avoid encounters with dogs.

Victims of dog attacks that take legal action against dog owners may be able to not only recoup costs associated with medical treatment for physical wounds, but also compensation for emotional trauma. 

Speak with an Attorney at Fulgencio Law Today

A victim that suffers psychological injuries after a dog bite incident may never fully recover. The emotional scarring can last a lifetime and be equally as painful as physical injuries if not even more devastating.

If you have questions about what your rights are after a dog bite incident in Florida, the Tampa personal injury attorneys at Fulgencio Law can help. Call Fulgencio Law today to schedule a free consultation at (813) 463-0123.