Deadly Dog Attacks on Children

In recent news, there have been two tragic stories of deadly dog attacks on children.  Both children, only aged four years old, were mauled to death while inside a home.  Lexi Branson, was attacked in her very own living room by the family dog while asleep on the floor.  The attacked occurred in Mountsorrel, Leicestershire.   Levi Watson was bitten by several pit bulls while inside the home of his mother’s friend.  His dog bite injuries were so severe that he died due to the severity of them. The canine attack occurred in White County, Arkansas.

These are very heartbreaking stories and our condolences go out to both families of the children killed in the vicious attacks.

In many families, dogs play an important role as guards, companions, and friends. Unfortunately, this partnership is not without problems. In recent years, it has become more and more apparent that dog bites are a serious and often underestimated public health problem.  In fact, children who are younger than 10 years represent the high-risk group for attacks and are usually bitten in the facial region. Statistics also prove that fatal dog attacks result most often when a sleeping child is attacked or there is more than one dog involved.  Both of these factors played a role in the two most recent tragic stories.

At the law firm of Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C., our dog bite attorneys represent victims involved in deadly attacks and offer free, legal advice to help those who are suffering from a traumatic loss.  When a person is killed in Michigan, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.  These lawsuits are filed against the dog owner and seek compensation for the pain and suffering endured by the loved one prior to death, the loss of society and companionship of the loved one, the loss of income (if applicable) and support, and payment of funeral and burial expenses.

In these type of cases, the homeowner’s insurance company for the pet owner usually pays a settlement to the family.  Often times, the claim can be settled with the insurance adjuster before a lawsuit is actually filed in the court.  These settlements often result in significant amounts due to the horrific circumstances of the attack.

For more information on the rights of a victim killed in a deadly animal attack in Michigan, you can call our expert dog bite attorneys today at (800) 606-1717.  We will be able to answer any questions that you may have, explain your legal rights, and the process of filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of your child or loved one.