Pit Bull Attacks Girl, 6 in Newport News

When dogs attack, children often end up as victims. In Newport News a 6-year-old girl was hurt over the weekend when she was mauled by a pit bull, according to the city.

Kim Lee, a spokeswoman with the City of Newport News told WAVY.com the incident happened on in the 12800 block of Tahiska Lane.

In the wake of the attack, the dog’s owner surrendered the pit bull to animal control and will not face any charges. Lee said the dog was going to be put down.

As a Newport News injury lawyer, I was concerned to read about this case. Alarmingly, officials say the dog’s rabies vaccine expired last month. The local health department will be contacted to see if the dog will have to be tested for rabies or if the shot was still valid, reported WAVY.

The report did not disclose the extent of the girl’s injuries. As dog bite attorneys, we know how serious these cases can be.

Two years ago we noted insurance payouts related to dog bite cases were rising rapidly amid concerns more dogs are out of control.

I’m alarmed but not at all surprised by these figures. An Associated Press report said the insurance company State Farm paid more than $109 million on about 3,800 dog bite claims nationwide in 2011. This was an increase on 2010, when there were about 3,500 claims and $90 million was made in payouts.

If you or your child has been hurt in a dog attack you may have a case against an owner who has allowed a dog to be out of control. Call Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers at 757.455.0077.