Three Injured While Posting Election Leaflets

Reports that three political campaigners posting leaflets ahead of the council elections suffered injuries in dog attacks highlight the serious, urgent need for reform of laws on this issue, according to a specialist lawyer at Irwin Mitchell.

Local media have revealed that campaigners working on behalf of the Liberal Democrats and Labour had the ends of their fingers bitten off while raising the profile of candidates taking part in this week’s polls.

Councillor Diana Stimely, Sue Ross and Michael Nicholson have called for dog owners to be aware of the issue and take steps to prevent the prospect of animal bites.

However, lawyers at Irwin Mitchell who act those left injured following dog attacks have said that the incidents will once again raise calls for the Government to quickly act to reconsider the legislation around dangerous dogs to improve protection for the public.

David Urpeth, a Partner and expert in dog bite claims, said: “A consultation is underway in relation to this issue, with measures including microchipping and new measures which would mean owners can be prosecuted for attacks on private property. Proposals need to include compulsory insurance to ensure that those injured can get access to the appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.

“These reports of dog attacks are just the latest in a long line to emerge and demonstrate how this remains a deeply concerning issue. So many of our clients have been left with long-term physical and psychological scars due to such incidents, and it can often be underestimated just how much of an impact these problems do have.

“Action is need urgently and we eagerly await more news of plans to tackle this issue.”