What Happens if Your Dog Bites the Postal Carrier or Delivery Driver?

CAN A POSTAL CARRIER SUE FOR DOG BITE INJURIES?

In most cases, yes. An individual who suffers harm, physical and/or emotional, as the result of a dog attack can sue the dog’s owner for damages. And, according to Michigan’s “strict liability” statute, the owner is liable for the victim’s injuries. This law applies provided that the victim had lawful right to be on the property and did not provoke the dog. The owner is responsible even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. 

Because mail carriers and delivery drivers have a legal right to enter their customers’ property, they are entitled to sue for damages resulting from a dog attack. 

WHAT DAMAGES ARE DOG OWNERS RESPONSIBLE FOR IF THEIR DOG BITES A POSTAL CARRIER?

If a mail carrier files a lawsuit, the dog owner is responsible for the victim’s medical care resulting from the dog attack. These costs can vary significantly depending on the severity and duration of the injuries. Some victims may require hospitalization, surgery medication and/or ongoing rehabilitative therapy. 

In addition to physical injuries, victims often suffer long-lasting or permanent psychological damage. This can include Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder (PTSD), nightmares, severe anxiety and depression.

These emotional and psychological consequences are considered non-economic losses, sometimes referred to as pain and suffering damages. Unlike medical expenses, these losses do not have a specific dollar amount. However, they can be a large part of a dog bite settlement. If you have been seriously injured by a dog, hiring a dog bite lawyer will help you receive all of the compensation you deserve.

WHY DO DOGS ATTACK MAIL CARRIERS?

Despite the clichés, there is a basis for the fraught relationship between dogs and postal carriers. Every situation is different, but there are some common reasons why a dog may be more prone to biting a mail carrier or delivery driver:

Many dogs have a basic instinct to protect their territory. It is possible for some dogs to see mail carriers and delivery people as intruders, which triggers their defenses.  

In addition, many dogs bark at mail carriers. If that does not deter the perceived intruder, a dog may become more aggressive. Because postal workers show up almost every day, a dog might feel increasingly threatened by their presence.

HOW A “GOOD SAMARITAN” SAVED ONE DETROIT MAILMAN FROM A VICIOUS DOG ATTACK

One of those victims was mailman Todd Bridges, 52, who was doing his route when a dog escaped through the front door of a nearby home and knocked him to the ground. Bridges was bitten by the dog and fortunately, a passerby managed to get the dog away from him. While Bridges eventually recovered from his physical injuries, his emotional trauma lasted far longer. Moreover, many dog bite victims suffer harm that lasts throughout their lives.

PREVENTING YOUR DOG FROM ATTACKING YOUR POSTAL CARRIER

Owners can take steps to create a more positive relationship and prevent situations in which a dog bites the postal carrier. Even if these efforts do not result in a lasting friendship, it may be enough to keep a dog from inflicting harm. 

Here are some tips from the U.S. Postal Service and other pet professionals:

• Introduce puppies to postal carriers in a non-threatening manner. Showing that you are not afraid of someone may stop the dog from becoming hostile toward them.
• If your dog tends to bark at delivery people, put the dog in a separate room and close the door before you open your front door. This is a good rule to follow for any visitors if your dog tends to be aggressive toward strangers. If this is not practical, put your dog on a short leash when someone comes to the door.
• Teach children not to take mail or packages directly from a mail carrier or delivery person if the dog is present. Dogs are especially protective of children and may attack the person they perceive as a threat.
• If your mailbox or slot is on your front porch, consider placing a box on your front walk. That way, postal carriers and delivery drivers will not have to come onto your porch.
• The Informed Delivery Service offered by the U.S. Postal Service will let you know when mail and packages are scheduled to arrive so you can make sure your dog is properly restrained.
• Consider professional obedience training if your dog continues to behave aggressively toward the mail carrier or other delivery personnel.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED DOG BITE LAW FIRM

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, contact us immediately. We know what it takes to win your case, and we are ready to fight for the benefits you deserve.

Dog bite law is complicated, but finding the right dog bite attorney is simple. 

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