Dog bites pose a significant threat to children, and the frequency of these incidents can be alarming. Studies suggest that children are often more vulnerable to dog bites than adults.
Parents understandably prioritize the safety of their children above all else, so it is important to understand just how common pediatric dog bites are and how severe the resulting injuries can be.
Why are pediatric dog bites so common?
Statistics indicate that over 2 million children suffer from dog bites each year. Children are more likely to provoke dogs unintentionally through actions like sudden movements, loud noises or trying to play roughly. Smaller children, in particular, are at greater risk because they are often at eye level with the dog, which can make them appear more threatening to the animal. Dog bites can cause serious injuries such as lacerations, puncture wounds and infections. In severe cases, children may require surgery or other extensive medical treatment to recover from the injuries.
What are the legal implications of a pediatric dog bite?
In Kentucky, dog owners bear responsibility for ensuring their pets do not harm others. The state follows a “strict liability” rule, meaning that a dog owner is responsible for any injury caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past. If a dog injures a child, the owner must pay for the resulting medical expenses and other damages.
The Kentucky Revised Statutes outline the legal consequences for dog owners when their pets injure others. Under KRS 258.235, any person attacked or injured by a dog has the right to recover damages from the dog’s owner. The law applies even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Pediatric dog bites are unfortunately very common, and it is also not entirely rare for them to require surgical treatment. By understanding the legal framework surrounding dog bites, families in Kentucky can take steps to help their children recover from dog bite injuries.
