Skilled Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in Salt Lake City, Utah

Table of Contents

At Swenson & Shelley Law, our Salt Lake City dog bite injury lawyers know that even the most well-trained canines can unexpectedly bite or attack someone they know or a complete stranger.

Dogs communicate using body language, vocalizations, and other subtle cues that humans may not always understand or recognize. What may seem like sudden aggression or unpredictability to humans may be a response to perceived threats or stressors that were not readily apparent.

Unfortunately, when dogs do bite—especially a child or aging individual—the injuries can be severe, requiring long-term care, often leading to scarring or disfigurement.

Utah has a strict liability law for dog bites, which means that dog owners are automatically liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This law applies even if the dog has never bitten before, is well-trained, or is scared.

In most cases, an estimated 75% of dog bite victims in Utah and nationwide are bitten by a dog they know. This could mean a dog belonging to a neighbor, coworker, friend, or family member. We understand taking legal action against a friend or family member can strain or damage relationships, causing emotional distress and potential rifts within the family or social circle.

This is why we are here. Our Salt Lake County personal injury attorneys help our clients pursue compensation through the dog owner’s insurance policies, such as homeowners insurance or liability insurance, so they can maintain their relationship while we handle the details of their claims. If a dog has bitten you or someone you love, contact our Salt Lake City personal injury lawyers today to learn more about your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome for your unique claim.

When the Worst Has Happened, We Fight for What’s Best for You.

Dog Bite Injury in Salt Lake City

Why Do Dogs Bite Without Provocation in Salt Lake City, Utah?

Dogs may bite when feeling threatened or fearful, even without provocation. Fear-induced aggression can be triggered by unfamiliar people, animals, or situations, as well as loud noises, sudden movements, or changes in their environment.

Other reasons may include dogs that exhibit territorial aggression, especially in their home environment, or defend their food, toys, or sleeping areas. Even friendly dogs may become aggressive if they perceive a threat to their territory.

Dogs may also bite to protect themselves, their owners, or their puppies from perceived threats or intruders. Interactions with strangers, other animals, or perceived dangers can trigger this protective behavior.

In addition, irresponsible ownership practices, such as inadequate supervision, neglect, or abuse, can lead to behavioral issues in dogs that may manifest as aggression or biting.

No matter the reason, Utah dog owners are automatically liable for injuries caused by their dogs under any circumstances. If a dog in Utah has bitten you or someone you love, contact our experienced Salt Lake City dog bite attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the dog’s owner for your complete financial recovery needs.

What Factors Contribute to the Severity of Dog Bite Injuries in Salt Lake City, Utah?

The severity of dog bite injuries depends on a combination of factors, including the dog’s size and breed, the bite’s location and depth, the presence of infection or complications, and the individual characteristics of the victim.

Several factors contribute to the severity of dog bite injuries:

  • Bite Force

The dog’s size and breed can influence its bite force. Larger breeds or dogs with strong jaws may inflict more severe injuries due to their greater bite force.

  • Location of the Bite

The location of the bite on the body can affect the severity of the injury. Bites to sensitive areas such as the face, neck, or hands may cause more significant damage and have a higher risk of complications.

  • Depth of the Wound

The depth of the bite wound can vary depending on factors such as the size of the dog’s teeth, the bite’s force, and the attack’s duration. Deep puncture wounds can damage underlying tissues, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, leading to more severe injuries.

  • Number of Bites

Multiple bites, particularly in rapid succession or sustained attacks, can increase the overall severity of injuries. Each additional bite adds to the cumulative damage inflicted on the victim.

  • Infection Risk

Dog bites can introduce bacteria from the dog’s mouth into the wound, increasing the risk of infection. Infections can lead to complications such as cellulitis, abscesses, or systemic diseases like sepsis, which can significantly worsen the outcome of the injury.

Dog bites can cause various types of tissue damage, including lacerations, puncture wounds, and crushing injuries. They can also damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to sensory loss, motor dysfunction, or impaired circulation in the affected area, which can result in long-term functional deficits and complications.

In some cases, dog bites may cause fractures or dislocations of bones in the affected area, particularly if the victim tries to defend themselves or escape from the attack. Worse, psychological trauma can exacerbate the overall severity of the injury and impact the victim’s quality of life.

Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential to minimize the severity of injuries and prevent complications. Once you have sought and received medical care, please take the next step in your recovery by contacting our skilled Salt Lake City dog bite injury attorneys for help.

Our Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Areas:

Contact Our Leading Dog Bite Injury Lawyers in Salt Lake City, Utah

Call us today at (801)-447-5464 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation where you can learn immediately whether your claim is eligible to move forward with legal action.

We do not charge any fees upfront for our services. Instead, you pay us only if we secure payment for you. That makes getting legal help accessible and allows you to focus on your recovery. Contact us now to learn more.