Dog attacks and bites can result in serious injuries, and in some cases, even death. Studies show that dogs bite almost five million individuals each year, and that approximately 368,000 of these dog bite victims require hospitalization.
Dogs have very strong and powerful jaws, and they can bite hard and deep. Oftentimes, dog bites damage the nerves found in an individual’s legs, arms, neck, and face. Nerve damage from dog bites can at times lead to immobility and chronic pain that may need years of extensive medical treatment and surgery.
Dogs have teeth that are sharp, and these teeth can easily sever or damage a nerve. Nerve damage can be significant, as well as permanent. A dog bite victim suffering from nerve damage may experience pain, numbness, or a loss of sensation. In severe cases, nerve damage can result in the loss of use of a limb. In some instances, however, surgery can repair the damage.
Kinds of Nerve Injury
There are three forms of nerve injury: neurapraxia, axonotmesis, and neurotmesis.
Neurapraxia is the least serious form of nerve injury, and complete recovery is possible. Victims with neurapraxia often experience a temporary loss of function for a few hours to a few months after the injury, averaging about six to nine weeks.
Axonotmesis is a more severe form of contusion or crush compared to naurapraxia, and occurs when the nerve is stretched. Axonotmesis may result in paralysis of the individual’s sensory, autonomic, and motor nervous systems. Nerves in this case are likely to recover, although regeneration ranges from a period of weeks to years.
Neurotmesis is the most severe form of nerve injury, and occurs on severe stretch, contusion, Local Anesthetic Toxicity, or laceration. Injuries sustained by nerve damage are most often permanent without repair. At best, a victim may possibly accomplish partial recovery.
Hiring An Attorney
A dog bite victim and even the victim’s family undergo a painful and traumatic experience that leaves physical, emotional, financial, and mental scars. If a dog bites you in New Jersey, immediately contact a dog bite attorney from The Grossman Law Firm. A dog bite attorney should be able to help you determine whether you are eligible to file a claim, and will help you recover financial compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering.