John P. Bisnar Dog Bites Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Child Suffers Serious Head Injuries in Pit Bull Attack

Friday, January 4, 2013 by John P. Bisnar

Caden Snyder, an 8-year-old boy from Tum Tum, Washington, suffered major head injuries after four loose pit bulls viciously attacked him. According to a KHQ news report, the incident occurred the afternoon of January 2, 2013 when Caden's mother, Kristina Snyder, brought her car down the hill while trying to help a friend on Highway 291.

That is when the four pit bulls "came out of nowhere" and mauled her son, she said. Caden had to get dozens of stitches on his skull and get half of his head shaved. The boy also suffered serious skull injuries.

The pit bulls will be chained for 10 days, but will not be euthanized following this brutal attack, the child's parents said.

My thoughts and prayers are with young Caden Snyder, who has apparently suffered major injuries in this dog attack. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.

Dog Attack Statistics

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4.5 million Americans suffer dog bites every year and 800,000 of those victims seek out medical attention. Of those who are injured in dog bite incidents, 386,000 require emergency services and 16 lose their lives.

Children are particularly more prone to dog bite injuries. Due to their height, children suffer the most dangerous injuries to their head and neck during dog attacks. The rate of dog attack injuries is highest among children between the ages of 5 and 9.

Liability Issues

Based on this news report, it appears that the pit bulls were simply restrained and no legal action was taken against the owner of the dogs. Even when no criminal charges are filed or no citations are issued, it is possible for victims or their families to pursue legal action against negligent dog owners.

Injured victims can seek compensation for damages suffered including medical expenses, cost of hospitalization, cosmetic surgery, pain and suffering, permanent injuries, disfigurement and emotional distress.

Injured victims or their families would also be well advised to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who will advise them regarding their legal rights and options and help them receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.

Posted at 17:47 PM

Topic: Dog Bites