What to Know About Dog Bites and Necrotizing Fasciitis
Dog bites are often much more than just simply puncture wounds that go away on their own. An attack by a dog can leave a person with infections that can be serious or even life-threatening.
Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but serious complication that can occur. Necrotizing fasciitis is often referred to as a “flesh-eating” infection because it attacks tissue beneath the skin, including fat and connective tissue. It progresses rapidly and requires immediate medical attention. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to sepsis, limb loss, or death.
Why are dog bites so susceptible to infection? Dogs’ mouths contain a wide range of bacteria. When a bite breaks the skin, bacteria can enter the body and cause infection. Most infections are mild and treatable, but in rare cases, bacteria can spread quickly through tissue and trigger necrotizing fasciitis. This condition can develop within hours or days after the injury.
What Are the Signs?
Anyone can develop an infection from a dog bite, but certain individuals are more vulnerable, including:
- People with weakened immune systems.
- Individuals with chronic illnesses like diabetes.
- Older adults.
- Those with delayed wound care.
After a dog bite, it is critical to monitor for symptoms that go beyond a typical infection:
- Severe pain that seems disproportionate to the wound
- Rapid swelling or redness spreading from the bite
- Skin discoloration, blisters, or blackened tissue
- Fever, chills, or fatigue
- A crackling sensation under the skin
Legal Considerations
New Jersey has a strict liability statute for dog bites. Under New Jersey Dog Bite Statute, a dog owner is responsible if:
- The dog bites someone, and
- The victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property
This means the victim does not need to prove negligence or prior aggression. Even a first-time bite can result in liability.
When a dog bite leads to complications like necrotizing fasciitis, damages in New Jersey can be substantial and may include:
- Emergency surgeries and hospitalization
- Long-term medical care and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, including scarring or disfigurement
Even with strict liability, you must show the bite caused the infection. Insurance companies may argue:
- The infection developed from another source.
- Delayed treatment worsened the outcome.
- A pre-existing condition contributed.
Medical documentation and expert opinions are key to connecting the bite to the infection. In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit, so do not delay or you may be barred from financial recovery.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Dog attacks are not minor incidents. A dog bite can cause intense long-term pain, scarring, disfigurement, and even diseases such as necrotizing fasciitis.
Injured by a dog? Get the help you need from a Morristown dog bite injury attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We can help you understand your legal options so you can get full and fair compensation for all your damages. Schedule a consultation with our office today by filling out the online form or calling (973) 455-1567.
Source:
cdc.gov/group-a-strep/about/necrotizing-fasciitis.html
