Personal Injury specialists from Irwin Mitchell have recovered a four figures settlement for a London theatre worker who was attacked by a dog whilst walking home.
Miriam Spencer, from Crystal Palace, was walking home from her job at the Old Vic Theatre when she was attacked by an un-muzzled Rottweiler. The unprovoked and unexpected attack seriously injured Miss Spencer and she was taken to the A&E department at May Day Hospital for treatment. The attack was so severe that, the next day, she was transferred to St George’s Hospital, where she received stiches on the three bite wounds on her arm under general anaesthetic.
Miriam had to take a full month off work after the attack, is now “absolutely terrified of dogs” and has permanent scarring to the underside of her right arm. She got in touch with our Personal Injury team to investigate the incident and secure funds to help her recovery. We were delighted to secure a four-figure sum and have arranged for Miss Spencer to attend counselling sessions to overcome the effects of the terrifying attack.
Louise Scott, Personal Injury expert at Irwin Mitchell, said: “This attack, which came completely out of the blue, has naturally had a massive impact on Miriam and it was a terrifying experience for her to go through.
“The incident has left her with an acute fear of dogs, which has a considerable impact on her life as she lives in an area that is popular with dog walkers. Miriam is the latest in a long line of people to have their lives turned upside down as a result of the physical and psychological trauma of such an attack and it highlights the dangers that some dogs can pose.
“Thankfully in this case the dog owner had suitable insurance to cover Miss Spencer’s injuries and she has been able to access the counselling she now needs to help her overcome the attack. Sadly many victims of dog attacks are faced with a more difficult legal challenge. We have repeatedly called for compulsory insurance and a register of dog owners so that all victims of dog bites are able to secure the support they need.”
Miss Spencer also said: “I’m extremely relieved that I can start to put the attack behind me thanks to the settlement and hopefully the counselling will help. I hope that my case will act as a reminder to dog owners of the need to keep control of their pets and to use a muzzle when walking in public places.”
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, then please get in touch with our Accidents In Public Places team as we may be able to help you make a dog bite claim. Either call us on 0370 1500 100 or fill in our contact form and we’ll call you back.
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