Top 5 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds in Indiana

What are the most reported dog breeds for attacks that happen in Indiana?

The state of Indiana’s most commonly reported dog breeds involved in attacks are similar to national trends. The following are the top most common dog breed attacks:

• Pit Bulls top the list for a significant percentage of dog attacks, both fatal and non-fatal
• Rottweilers
• German Shepherds
• Mixed breeds
• American Bulldogs and Siberian Huskies have also been noted for their involvement in serious incidents, though they account for a smaller percentage compared to the top three or four listed above.

These trends reflect the larger patterns seen across the United States, where these breeds are often overrepresented in dog attack statistics due to factors like size, strength, and in some cases, improper training or socialization.

Recent incidents

There was a recent dog attack in Indianapolis where a woman was dog-sitting and unfortunately lost her life. For more on the story, you can read here.

There was also another dog bite victim near South Bend in the town of Mishawaka where a crossing guard was attacked and injured. For more on that story, you can read here.

Who Pays the Victim Compensation After a Dog Attack Incident?

The at-fault parties’ insurance company would pay the victim compensation from their insurance policy. The most common way is from the dog owners’ homeowners or renters’ insurance because these policies include liability coverage for dog bites. If the dog owner does not have insurance or if the damages exceed the policy limits, the victim may pursue compensation directly from the dog owner’s personal assets. This might involve filing a lawsuit to claim damages.

Cost of Dog Bites for Insurance Companies

Per the Canine Journal, in 2022 alone, insurance companies paid out a whopping $1.1 Billion for dog bite related claims. That’s why it’s important to contact a dog bite lawyer in Indiana if you were attacked or injured by a dog so that we ensure that you are covered for any expenses you incur from the attack.

What should I do after a dog bites me?

Unfortunately, there are over 4 million dog attacks in the U.S. each year resulting in serious injuries. However, some of the instances also lead to death. If you are seeking justice for a loved one who was killed by a dog, give our wrongful death law firm a call today to discuss legal options.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take these recommended steps that may be useful if you decide to seek compensation or report the incident. Here’s what you should do:

• Get Medical Attention ASAP:
  • Clean the Wound: Immediately wash the bite area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Apply an Antiseptic: Use an antiseptic solution to clean the wound further.
• Get Professional Medical Help:
  • Depending on the severity of the bite, you may need stitches, a tetanus shot, or even rabies treatment if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown.
• Identify the Dog and Owner:
  • Document the Dog’s Description: Note the breed, color, and size of the dog. If the dog is a stray, try to get a photo if it’s safe to do so.
  • Get Contact Information: Obtain the dog owner’s contact information and ask for the dog’s vaccination records, especially for rabies. If you can’t find the owner, then report the incident and the police may be able to help find the rightful owner.
• Report the Incident:
  • Contact the Police: Report the bite to your local animal control or police department. This helps create an official record of the incident, which may be important if the dog has a history of aggression.
  • Notify Your Health Department: Some jurisdictions require dog bites to be reported to the health department, particularly if there’s a risk of rabies.
  • Consult with a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer if your injuries are severe or if you incur significant medical expense.
• Document Everything:
  • Take Photos: Photograph your injuries with your cell phone as soon as possible after the bite and throughout the healing process.
  • Write Down Details: Note the time, date, and location of the incident, as well as any circumstances leading up to the bite.

Consider Legal Action

You may want to consult with a personal injury lawyer in Indianapolis who specializes in dog bite cases. They can help you understand your rights and potential compensation options.