Complications Related to Dog Bites

Dog bites can lead to severe complications that extend far beyond the initial injury. As experienced Louisiana dog bite lawyers, we at Egenberg Trial Lawyers have seen firsthand the devastating impact these incidents can have on victims and their families.

Here, we’ll explore the various complications associated with dog bites, the legal landscape in Louisiana, and how our skilled Louisiana dog bite attorneys can help you navigate the aftermath of such an incident.

The Immediate Aftermath: More Than Just a Bite

When a dog attack occurs, the immediate concern is often the visible wound. However, the complications that can arise in the hours, days, and even weeks following a bite are numerous and potentially life-threatening. Understanding these risks is crucial for both victims and their families.

Infection: A Silent Threat

One of the most common and serious complications of dog bites is infection. Dogs’ mouths harbor a multitude of bacteria, which can be introduced deep into the tissue through a bite wound. Infections can range from localized cellulitis to more severe systemic infections like sepsis.

Pasteurella, a type of bacteria commonly found in the mouths of dogs and cats, is often responsible for rapid-onset infections. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and pain around the wound site, often accompanied by fever and lymph node swelling. In some cases, these infections can progress rapidly, leading to more severe conditions such as abscesses or even necrotizing fasciitis, a rare but life-threatening infection that destroys tissue under the skin.

Rabies: A Rare but Deadly Risk

While rare in the United States due to widespread vaccination programs, rabies remains a concern in dog bite cases, especially if the attacking dog’s vaccination status is unknown. Rabies is a viral infection that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. This is why immediate medical attention and, if necessary, post-exposure prophylaxis are crucial following a dog bite.

Tetanus: An Often Overlooked Danger

Tetanus, caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, is another potential complication of dog bites. This serious bacterial infection affects the nervous system and can cause severe muscle stiffness and spasms. While less common than other infections, the risk of tetanus should not be ignored, especially in individuals who are not up to date with their tetanus vaccinations.

Long-Term Physical Complications

Beyond the immediate risks of infection and disease, dog bites can lead to long-term physical complications that may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Severe dog bites, particularly those to the face or other visible areas of the body, can result in significant scarring and disfigurement. These physical reminders of the attack can have lasting psychological impacts on victims, affecting their self-esteem and quality of life. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to address the cosmetic and functional effects of severe scarring.

Nerve Damage

Deep bites or those that involve significant tearing can cause damage to nerves, potentially leading to chronic pain, numbness, or loss of function in the affected area. This type of injury can have long-lasting effects on a person’s ability to work or perform daily activities, significantly impacting their quality of life.

Bone and Joint Injuries

In cases of severe attacks, especially those involving large dogs or multiple dogs, victims may suffer from broken bones or joint injuries. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and prolonged physical therapy. In some cases, victims may be left with permanent disabilities or chronic pain.

Psychological Trauma: The Unseen Wound

The physical complications of dog bites are often accompanied by significant psychological trauma. Victims, especially children, may develop a fear of dogs or other animals, experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or suffer from anxiety and depression related to the attack and its aftermath.

These psychological effects can be long-lasting and may require professional intervention to address. As Louisiana dog bite attorneys, we understand the importance of considering both the physical and emotional impacts of a dog attack when pursuing legal action.

Legal Implications: Understanding Louisiana’s Dog Bite Laws

In Louisiana, the legal landscape surrounding dog bites is governed by both statutory law and case law. Understanding these laws is crucial for victims seeking compensation for their injuries and complications.

Louisiana’s Dog Bite Statute

Louisiana Civil Code Article 2321 addresses owner liability for damage caused by animals. It states:

“The owner of an animal is answerable for the damage caused by the animal. However, he is answerable for the damage only upon a showing that he knew or, in the exercise of reasonable care, should have known that his animal’s behavior would cause damage, that the damage could have been prevented by the exercise of reasonable care, and that he failed to exercise such reasonable care.”

This statute establishes a form of negligence-based liability for dog owners. Unlike some states that have strict liability laws for dog bites, Louisiana requires the victim to prove that the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s dangerous tendencies and failed to take reasonable precautions.

The “One Bite” Rule and Its Implications

Louisiana’s approach to dog bite cases is sometimes referred to as a modified “one bite” rule. This means that if a dog has never shown aggressive tendencies before, the owner may not be held liable for the first incident unless other factors indicate they should have known the dog was dangerous.

However, it’s important to note that a previous bite is not the only way to establish an owner’s knowledge of their dog’s dangerous propensities. Other factors, such as the dog’s breed, size, or known aggressive behavior towards other animals, may be considered in determining liability.

Protecting Your Rights and Your Health After a Dog Bite in New Orleans

Remember, in the aftermath of a dog bite, time is of the essence. The sooner you seek legal assistance, the better positioned you’ll be to build a strong case and address the full spectrum of complications that may arise. Trust in the experience and dedication of Egenberg Trial Lawyers to be your advocates in this challenging time. Call (504) 229-5700 today.