When Can Dog Attacks Lead to Fall Injuries?

 Posted on July 24, 2023 in Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can be a terrifying experience, causing physical and emotional harm to the victim. While most people associate dog attacks with bites and scratches, these incidents can also involve other types of injuries, including those suffered in falls. When a dog attack causes someone to fall down on a hard surface, such as a sidewalk, they may suffer multiple types of severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord damage. Victims of dog bites and attacks will need to understand what steps they can take to ensure they will be compensated for the injuries suffered in falls and other ways they have been affected.

Reasons Dog Attacks May Lead to Dangerous Falls

While dog bites can be very painful and can lead to issues such as puncture wounds, lacerations, infections, nerve damage, and disfiguring scars, a person may be seriously injured in other ways. Fall injuries can occur when a dog jumps on someone or makes aggressive moves. Falls may be caused by:

• Aggressive behavior - When a dog behaves in a dangerous manner or makes moves to attack someone, the victim may instinctively try to defend themselves or escape the situation. This can lead to sudden movements or attempts to flee, which can result in a loss of balance and a fall. For example, if a dog lunges at someone, the person may try to step back or sidestep to avoid the attack, potentially tripping over an object or an uneven surface and falling.

• Leash entanglement - During a dog attack, the victim may become entangled in the dog's leash or tether. If a dog suddenly lunges or charges at someone while on a leash, the leash may wrap around the victim's legs or body, leading to a loss of balance and a fall. This can be particularly dangerous if the fall occurs on a hard surface or near traffic.

• Slippery surfaces - In some cases, dog attacks can cause falls due to the condition of the ground or surface where the incident occurs. For example, if a dog attacks someone on a wet or icy sidewalk, the victim may slip and fall while trying to evade the attack. Similarly, if a dog attacks someone near a pool or other body of water, the victim may lose their footing and fall into the water, potentially leading to drowning or other injuries.

• Startle response - When a dog attacks unexpectedly, the victim may be startled, causing them to lose their balance and fall. This can happen if a dog suddenly jumps on someone or charges at them from behind. The element of surprise can lead to a loss of coordination and result in a fall, potentially causing serious injuries.

Contact Our DuPage County Dog Attack Fall Injury Attorneys

If you have been injured in a dog attack, do not hesitate to reach out to the experienced attorneys at Dog Bite Injury Lawyer - Mevorah Law Offices LLC. Our team deeply understands personal injury law, and we can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. We can assess your case, gather evidence to show that a dog’s owner or person in control of the dog is liable for your injuries, and help you pursue compensation that will address your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To schedule a free consultation, contact our Aurora dog attack lawyers at 630-552-6860. We are here to fight for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.