Graphs via KTLA News: dog bites by city, dog bites by state.
The U.S. Postal Service has released its annual dog bite national rankings, revealing over 5,800 incidents involving dog attacks on postal employees in 2023.
As part of its National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign from June 2 to 9, 2024, the USPS is promoting responsible pet ownership to ensure the safety of mail carriers using the hashtag #dogbiteawareness.
According to the latest statistics released by the United States Postal Service (USPS), Los Angeles led the nation in dog bites again against mail carriers in 2023, with a staggering 65 reported attacks—nine more than second-place Houston.
This trend underscores the importance of responsible dog ownership across our state to reduce injuries. Other California cities outside of LA, including San Diego, Sacramento, San Francisco, and Long Beach, also made the USPS top 30 list of attacks on postal workers.
California led all states with 727 reported dog bites against postal workers last year, over 300 more incidents than the next highest state, Texas.
Dog Owners Can Be Sued
When a dog bites someone in California, the owner can be sued. There is strict liability for dog attacks, and there can be civil and criminal penalties. So, what can California dog owners do to reverse this alarming trend and prevent their dogs from biting mail carriers or anyone else?
The USPS offers some common-sense tips:
- Lock dogs behind a gate or fence when postal workers arrive at your home
- Keep dogs leashed when out on walks
- Don’t startle or scare the dog
- Don’t assume they’re friendly
- Don’t try to pet the dog
- Ensure your dog is adequately socialized
- Properly socialize and train your dog
There Are No Free Bites in California
Dog owners should familiarize themselves with California’s strict liability statute regarding dog bites. In California, owners are liable for damages regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten someone or shown aggressive tendencies.
By taking proactive steps to control your dog’s environment and interactions, you can do your part to shed Los Angeles’ dubious distinction atop the dog bite rankings and make our communities safer for mail carriers and all residents.
Continued Canine Education and Awareness
Bisnar Chase has extensively covered dog attacks in California, created nationwide dog breed studies, and continues to educate through educational material on the dangers of untrained, unleashed, and dangerous dogs.
Senior partner Brian Chase says the law firm has seen a rise in dog bite cases since COVID hit, with many people stuck at home purchasing or receiving dogs.
“The pandemic seems to have played a role in the increase of dog owners in California. Unfortunately, not everyone is a responsible dog owner, and attacks happen. Our practice has seen a sizeable increase in dog bite cases.”
Resources for Dog Owners and Victims of dog attacks
- Dog Bite Liability in California (Infographic)
- Public Paw-ception: Nationwide Dog Breed Study
- California Dog Bite Laws
- Los Angeles County Dog Bite Laws
- Orange County Dog Bite Laws
- Riverside County Dog Bite Laws
- San Bernardino County Dog Bite Laws
- Dog Bite Statistics
- Study Shows Dog Bite Insurance Claims Are at Record Levels
