Pit Bull Owners Should be Aware of Potential Liability.

On October 14, 2015, two pit bull type dogs escaped from their enclosure in a Virginia neighborhood and went on a rampage. The event brought into sharp relief the importance of taking appropriate safety measures as a dog owner. A dog bite lawyer can be invaluable for victims in cases like this, but prevention is always better than compensation.

After the two dogs escaped, they found a home where several other dogs were kept inside a fence. The pit bulls aggressively approached and barked at the homeowner’s dogs, prompting neighbors to call the police.

Unfortunately, when the police arrived, the dogs had already broken through the fence. The two pit bulls killed one dog and badly wounded another. The owners of the two respective sets of dogs were in the process of trying to intervene. 

In the fracas, the pit bulls turned on both master and stranger. They bit them both several times. The police quickly fired a Taser at one of the attacking dogs and sent it running. Its companion followed.

The two human victims were taken to a hospital and treated for their bite wounds. Both canine victims were tragically killed. At the time of writing, the attacking pit bulls are in the custody of animal control. Their fate is unclear.

When a lawyer approaches a dog bite case like this one, he or she must take many factors into consideration. Who was responsible for the dogs? Were they negligent in any way? What damages were sustained?

Pit bull owners should pay especially close attention to these questions because of the unfortunate prejudice against these dogs. Pit bulls have a reputation for violence and aggression that may not be entirely justified. 

Regardless, taking appropriate precautions against dog bite injuries can prevent awkward and expensive legal cases. As helpful as a lawyer can be, safety is better. Because most dogs are euthanized when they attack, there’s more than just money at stake.

“In most states a dog can be destroyed if they bite someone and they are not up to date on vaccines,” advises Dr. Kristy Conn, a veterinarian and member of the National Animal Health Emergency Response Corps. “Seek professional help from your veterinarian if your dog shows any signs of aggression. If you have children take the time to educate them on how to act around dogs, what to watch for and what to do if a dog attacks.”

You won’t need a lawyer if your dog never displays aggressive behavior.

Tanner Wadsworth is a legal writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Robert J Debry. Follow on Twitter