One of the most terrifying experiences for any cyclist is being chased by a pit bull, or several pit bulls. These vicious dogs are often trained to attack and cause permanent disabling injury. We have been contacted and retained by victims who have been bitten, knocked down and even knocked unconscious by large, fast-moving dogs. Cyclists have been blind-sided by these charging canines, causing crashes and long-lasting scars to these athletes. Even the fastest member of the peloton may ot be able to escape permanent or disabling injuries. Chantilly and Centreville canine attack lawyer Landau has seen firsthand how devastating dog bite injuries can be to his clients and friends. The staff at ABRAMS LANDAU has understands the emotional scarring can last long after the physical wounds have healed. What can be done to increase biker safety or at least minimize the potential dog bite injuries ? How does one safely avoid the deep, penetrating wounds that often result from a put bull and other large dog attacks and bites ?

According to Daniel Estep of the The National Animal Control Association‘s training academy, “If the dog is 50 yards away and starts after you, if you can escape somewhere – inside a building. or on top of your car, or jump a fence – then that’s probably the best thing to do. If the dog is closer than that, then that’s not a good idea. In a footrace, you’re going to lose. The January 2010 Esquire Magazine piece goes on to suggest:

1. If the attack is imminent, try to shove something in its mouth, hopefully not a vital body part. If you’ve got a briefcase or clipboard or even a coat, shove that at the dog. Most of the time, dogs are going to bite the first thing they get their teeth around. And then you can try to walk your way out of the situation.
2. If that’s not possible, feed him your nondominant arm. Arm, not hand. And let him grab onto that and try to get yourself out of the situation. The last thing you want to have happen is to be taken off your feet, because then it’s much more difficult to protect yourself from serious injuries.
3. If you get brought down, the best advice is to curl up into a ball and try to protect your belly and chest area. Cover your neck with your hands and loop your arm around so that it covers your face. When people roll up into this position and don’t move, oftentimes the dogs lose interest.

If you or someone you know has been injured in pit bull or other dog or animal attack, please e-mail us at ABRAMS LANDAU, Ltd., or call 703-796-9555 today.