Real and fictional stories of mail carriers being attacked by dogs have been a cultural staple for years. In many cases, these incidents are even given a humorous treatment in films and television. The reality is much more serious though. Many U.S. Postal Service employees require medical treatment from animal attacks that occur as they try to do their job. To raise awareness of the danger, the USPS collects data on dog bite injuries suffered by their workers. The results show how widespread these incidents are, and it’s not just mail carriers who are at risk. 

Approximately 5,000 mail carriers nationwide suffer injuries each year from animal attacks that occur when they approach homes to deliver packages or letters. For 2023, Tacoma led the state in serious dog bites suffered by USPS employees, with 13. Dogs, feeling protective or territorial, sometimes perceive the mail carrier as a threat and react aggressively. In some cases, even a normally docile pet can become dangerous if it feels provoked by a stranger entering its perceived territory.

Overall, an estimated 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States annually. Of these, more than 800,000 victims require medical attention. Along with mail carriers, children and the elderly face an increased risk of dog bites, as they may not be able to defend themselves or escape from an aggressive dog. Specific injuries associated with dog bites include lacerations, bruises, nerve damage and fractured bones. In some cases, a person who is bitten could contract a serious infection, or even rabies. Many victims also suffer significant emotional and psychological effects following an attack. 

In Washington State, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog had no prior history of aggressive behavior. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner may be responsible for compensating the victim for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages. If you have been hurt after being bitten by someone else’s pet, you should reach out to an attorney with experience successfully handling dog bite claims.   

GSJones Law Group, P.S. represents clients from Kitsap, Mason and Jefferson counties, as well as Vashon Island and other Washington communities, in dog bite litigation and other types of personal injury actions. For a consultation regarding your potential compensation, please call 360-876-9221 or contact us online. Our office is in Port Orchard.