For postal workers who go door to door delivering mail, the threat of being bitten by a dog is a daily concern. It’s not just a common punchline to jokes: postal workers do get harassed by dogs protecting homes from intruders. Because they have to deliver mail to designated boxes and slots, this necessitates entering private properties and yards which often disturbs pets – most notably dogs.
According to the United States Postal Service, more than 6,200 postal employees were attacked by dogs across the country just in 2017 alone. San Diego, in fact, was the fifth ranked city last year, at 46 attacks. The CDC goes on to say that nearly one in five people who are bitten by a dog require medical attention, in many cases because the site became infected.
From nips and bites to vicious attacks that can threaten lives, aggressive dog behavior poses a big threat to postal workers. And with 36 percent of American households owning at least one dog, it’s important to keep postal workers and anyone else who encounters dogs on a daily basis safe.
The USPS offers these reminders and warnings for dog owners this spring:
- If your door is open and your dog is loose and bites or attacks a mail carrier, your mail will be suspended permanently and you will be required to have your mail delivered to a PO box.
- Dog owners are fully responsible for dog attacks and can be held financially responsible for any injuries imposed on carriers.
- Control your dog in all situations.
- Restrain your dog when your letter carrier visits your home.
- Keep your dog inside, away from the door, or on a leash.
- Don’t let your child take the mail from a letter carrier in the presence of your dog, as your dog’s natural instinct is to protect your family.
Remember: Famous last words…”my dog won’t bite.” If your dog has teeth, it WILL bite!
Contact Kuzyk Law
If you are a letter carrier who has suffered a dog bite on your route, don’t hesitate to call the dog bite lawyers here at Kuzyk Law. We specialize in these types of cases and can get you the compensation you deserve. The loss or impairment of your hands, arms, feet and legs can threaten your very livelihood. Medical expenses, rehab, physical therapy and even plastic surgery can result from a traumatic dog bite, not to mention loss of income, permanent scars, emotional trauma and extreme pain. Call us now at 661-945-6969.
