Dog Bites and Rabies

A Message of Reassurance on Rabies

At  Cohen Cramer Solicitors, we understand the distress and concern that can follow a dog bite. One of the primary worries often involves the risk of rabies.

Rabies, a viral disease known for its severe impact on both animals and humans, has a history of causing alarm worldwide. However, the situation in the UK is markedly different from many other regions. The last recorded case of indigenous rabies in a dog in the UK occurred in the early 20th century. Since then, the country has been largely free of this dreaded disease, thanks to stringent animal control measures and effective vaccination programs. The Pet Travel Scheme, introduced in the early 2000s, further reinforced this status by ensuring that animals entering the country are appropriately vaccinated and monitored.

In recent years, there have been isolated incidents of rabies in the UK, but these have predominantly been confined to bat species and are known as a variant of the virus, European Bat Lyssavirus. These cases are extremely rare and pose minimal risk to the general public. The UK government maintains strict surveillance and response systems to handle any potential cases of rabies. As a result, the threat of contracting rabies from a dog bite in the UK remains exceedingly low, offering reassurance to those concerned about this aspect of dog bites.

While the risk of contracting rabies from a dog bite in the UK is minimal, we recognize that the physical and emotional impact of such an incident can be significant.

Your Legal Rights After a Dog Bite

As dog bite claim specialists, we aim to guide you through understanding and exercising your legal rights. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation can cover various aspects, including:

  • Medical Expenses: Treatment costs, including any necessary vaccinations or preventive treatments following the bite.
  • Lost Earnings: Compensation for time off work due to injury.
  • Pain and Suffering: This includes physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Rehabilitation Costs: If the injury requires ongoing physical therapy or counseling.

The Claims Process

Our team of experienced solicitors will guide you through the claims process, which typically involves:

  1. Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss the details of the incident and assess your case.
  2. Gathering Evidence: This includes medical reports, witness statements, and, if applicable, evidence of the dog’s history.
  3. Negotiating Compensation: We strive to secure a fair settlement that reflects the impact the incident has had on your life.
  4. Legal Proceedings: If necessary, we will represent you in court to ensure your rights are fully protected.

Why Choose Cohen Cramer?

  • Expertise: Specialised knowledge in dog bite claims and personal injury law.
  • Commitment: Dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
  • Support: We offer compassionate, comprehensive support throughout your case.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has been affected by a dog bite, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a no-obligation consultation. Our team is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need.

For a review and assessment of your dog bite claim get in touch with us today: