No matter how mild or severe it is, a dog bite can spark fear and anguish in children. The traumatizing event can inflict physical and emotional wounds, especially in young children. The child can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can hinder their developmental growth. If your child sustained a dog bite, a personal injury lawyer can ensure that your little one is compensated appropriately. Before calling an attorney, pay attention to PTSD signs in your child. These symptoms can help your lawyer determine the best course of action for your personal injury case.

How a Dog Bite Can Lead to a Personal Injury Case 

Are There Dog Bite Laws in My State? 

Massachusetts state law offers a high level of protection for children who sustained a dog bite. Once a personal injury attorney determines that the child didn’t aggravate, trespass, or abuse the dog, they will establish a case to ensure that the dog’s owner is held liable for their pet’s behavior. If your child is under 7 years old, they are presumed not to have teased or tormented the dog that bit them.

Do Dog Bites Cause PTSD in Children?

Children who suffer severe animal attacks are at risk for developing PTSD. A study showed that of 22 children who were bitten by dogs, 12 developed symptoms of PTSD within 2 to 9 months after the bites. A violent dog attack that inflicts deep wounds can trigger this mental health condition. Even if your child fell off a bike or ran away from a dog in fear and tripped, a personal injury attorney can still file a claim for you and your child can still develop PTSD from the events. 

What PTSD Signs Should I Look For? 

Children may display a variety of signs and symptoms of PTSD after a dog attack. Common signs are lack of concentration, fear of the dark, fear of being alone and outbursts of anxiety or anger. Some children may refuse to talk, show limited emotional expression, and are reluctant to play with toy dogs. If you notice extreme behavioral changes in your child after a dog bite, alert your doctor and consult with a personal injury attorney to file a claim. 

If your child experienced a dog bite, experienced personal injury attorneys at Bellotti Law Group, PC, in the Greater Boston area, can help you file a claim and seek the best outcome. Injured individuals count on the trusted and effective representation this firm provides. Whether you want to file a personal injury case or proceed with a family law matter, these compassionate lawyers will represent you and seek damages on your behalf. Call (617) 778-1000 to schedule a free consultation or visit their website to read more about their dog bites and animal attacks services.