Dog bites often occur with little warning. They can happen in front lawns or at public parks. They may take place on sidewalks or inside homes. People of all ages are at risk, but children are especially vulnerable due to their size and their inability to recognize hostile canine body language.
Dogs may bite people at any time of day and at any point throughout the year. However, researchers assessing patterns in dog bite incidents have identified the summer months as a particularly high-risk time for canine attacks. Why are dog bite incidents more common in the summer?
Environmental factors influence risk
Researchers found that three environmental factors influence the likelihood of a dog becoming aggressive toward humans. The first is high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. The second is increased ambient temperatures. The third is higher levels of ozone pollution.
Any days that see even one of those conditions may have a higher number of reported dog bite incidents. Correlation persists even in the winter months. However, the summer is likely to see all three of those factors present on many sunny days, creating a significant and noteworthy uptick in dog bite attacks.
Outdoor activity increases opportunities for attacks
Many humans reduce their social outings and outdoor activities during the winter and the transitional seasons when precipitation levels are higher. The summer sees many people out jogging, enjoying public parks or visiting their friends. Excursions in public and on private property can put people at risk of encountering a dog who feels aggressive due to environmental factors. Children being off from school all summer can also expose them to risk in public spaces or care facilities.
Dog bites can cause severe tissue damage, disfiguring scars, serious infections and even broken bones, especially when the person attacked is a child. Those injured by a dog may be eligible for financial compensation. Premises liability coverage provided through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance could cover medical costs and other losses.
Property owners and businesses may sometimes be directly liable for failing to restrain or adequately train a dangerous dog. Reviewing the circumstances of a serious dog bite can help victims and concerned parents cover their losses by holding irresponsible pet owners accountable.