Dog ownership is very common in Preston, with families, students, and professionals all enjoying the benefits of having a pet. Local parks, such as Avenham Park, Moor Park, and Miller Park, are popular places for dog walking, and many neighbourhoods have a strong pet-friendly culture. While most dogs are well-trained and sociable, there are occasions when an animal acts aggressively and bites. These incidents can be frightening and traumatic, often causing lasting harm.
Should you or a loved one experience a dog bite in Preston, you might qualify for compensation. Understanding your rights, the responsibilities of dog owners, and the legal process is vital in protecting your wellbeing and financial security.
Why dog bites are a serious concern
A dog bite is more than a painful incident. Even a small bite can lead to infections if not treated promptly, and more severe attacks may cause scarring, disfigurement, or long-term disability. Children are especially vulnerable, as their height and physical fragility make them more likely to suffer facial injuries or lasting trauma.
The psychological impact should not be underestimated. Many victims experience anxiety about going outside, develop a fear of dogs, or struggle with confidence in social settings. This emotional harm can affect work, education, and relationships, making recovery a longer process.
Common situations where dog bites happen in Preston
Dog bite incidents occur in a variety of situations across Preston. Some of the most common include:
- Attacks during walks in public parks, particularly when dogs are not kept on a lead
- Bites occurring on residential streets where gates or fencing are inadequate
- Children bitten while visiting friends’ or neighbours’ homes
- Postal workers, delivery drivers, or visitors being attacked on private property
- Stray dogs causing injuries in public spaces
- Dogs fighting with other pets, with owners or bystanders injured when separating them
In many of these cases, the incident happens because a dog owner failed to keep proper control of their animal.
Legal duties of dog owners in Preston
Dog owners have a clear responsibility under UK law to ensure their animals do not cause harm. The key legal points include:
- Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 – Makes it an offence to allow a dog to be dangerously out of control in public or private spaces.
- Animal Act 1971 – This states that keepers of animals are generally liable for damage caused by them in certain circumstances.
- Local bylaws – Some areas of Preston may have specific rules requiring leads in parks or restricting where dogs can be exercised.
In practical terms, this means that if you are bitten by a dog while lawfully present in a public or private place, the owner may be held liable. Even if the dog has never shown aggression before, the owner can still face responsibility if they failed to take reasonable precautions.
Injuries caused by dog bites
Dog bites can lead to a wide range of injuries, including:
- Deep puncture wounds
- Lacerations and torn skin
- Facial injuries requiring reconstructive surgery
- Broken bones from the force of the bite
- Nerve and tendon damage in the hands and arms
- Eye injuries in children who are attacked at head height
Medical treatment often involves stitches, antibiotics, and, in some cases, plastic surgery. Scarring is common, and victims may need long-term rehabilitation. In addition to physical harm, many people experience ongoing pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty returning to normal routines.
Psychological effects of dog bite incidents
The emotional aftermath of a dog bite can be just as severe as the physical injuries. Victims often report:
- Fear of dogs or animals in general
- Anxiety when leaving the home or walking in public places
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Social withdrawal and reduced confidence
- Post-traumatic stress disorder in serious cases
Children may struggle at school, lose interest in outdoor play, or feel self-conscious about visible scarring. Compensation claims take into account these long-term consequences.
Can you make a compensation claim following a dog bite in Preston?
Should a dog bite incident cause you harm, you might be eligible to pursue compensation. To succeed, you generally need to show that:
- The dog owner owed you a duty of care.
- The dog attacked or bit you without lawful justification.
- The attack caused your injuries and related financial or emotional losses.
Compensation is designed to cover both the direct costs of your injury and the wider impact on your life.
What compensation can include
Compensation for dog bite injuries can cover:
- Medical expenses such as hospital treatment, antibiotics, and surgery
- Cosmetic surgery to address scarring or disfigurement
- Counselling or psychological therapy
- Loss of income if you are unable to work
- Travel expenses linked to medical appointments
- Ongoing care or rehabilitation support
- Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment in life
For example, someone bitten on the hand may need surgery, physiotherapy, and time away from work. A child who is bitten on the face may require long-term counselling and corrective surgery. We consider all these factors when calculating damages.
Steps to take after a dog bite incident
If you suffer a dog bite in Preston, acting quickly helps protect both your health and your ability to bring a claim:
- Seek medical help immediately and keep detailed records of treatment.
- Report the incident to the police or Preston City Council if appropriate.
- Identify the dog’s owner and obtain their contact details.
- Collect witness statements or photographs of the dog and location.
- Keep a diary of symptoms, emotional effects, and financial costs.
- Contact a solicitor experienced in personal injury claims.
These actions can provide crucial evidence to support your case.
Time limits for making a claim
Most personal injury claims must be started within three years of the incident. For children, the three-year limit begins on their 18th birthday. Starting earlier is strongly advised, as evidence is fresher and witnesses more reliable.
Why local expertise in Preston matters
Having a solicitor who understands Preston and the surrounding area can be an advantage. Local knowledge of parks, neighbourhoods, and common dog walking routes can strengthen your case. An experienced solicitor familiar with local authorities and courts can guarantee the efficient and effective handling of your claim.
FAQ
What if I were bitten while working, such as delivering parcels?
You may still be entitled to claim compensation. The dog owner is responsible for controlling their pet, and employers may also have a duty to protect workers from foreseeable risks.
Can I claim if the dog owner does not have insurance?
Yes. Claims can still be pursued directly against the owner, though the process may be more complex. A solicitor can advise on the best approach and explore all possible sources of compensation.
Do I have to go to court to claim?
Not always. Many dog bite claims are settled through negotiation. Court action is usually a last resort if agreement cannot be reached.
Speak to a Preston solicitor today
You don’t have to face the consequences alone if a dog bit you in Preston. Marley Solicitors can provide clear advice, local expertise, and supportive representation. Our team will listen to your story, explain your options, and help you secure fair compensation for your injuries.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to speak with a Preston-based solicitor about your dog bite claim. Taking action now can give you the financial support and peace of mind you need to move forward.