Government Urged To Give Timescale On Dangerous Dog Measures

Legal experts have called for more information from the Government over its plans crack down on dangerous dogs and irresponsible owners, following a serious incident in East Sussex which left eight people injured.

Sussex Police have revealed that a 22-year-old man has been arrested following the incident in Hastings, involving two dogs which escaped into a street.

Three people suffered serious dog bites and scratches, while five others had minor injuries. Each dog was contained by members of the public and a specialist dog unit respectively. The breed of the dog has not yet been confirmed.

Irwin Mitchell’s specialist injury lawyers represent victims of all ages who have been seriously injured in dog attacks across the UK and have seen first-hand the horrific physical and psychological trauma that such incidents can cause.

David Urpeth, a legal expert at Irwin Mitchell who represents people seriously injured in dog attacks across the UK, said: “This is the latest in series of worrying incidents in the past six months which have put the issue of dangerous dogs firmly back in the spotlight.

“Despite this, we are still waiting a strong sign from the Government as to how it is planning to tackle this issue. A consultation on new measures such as compulsory microchipping is underway, but a clear roadmap on how and when such guidelines may be introduced is desperately needed.

“Dog attacks have a huge impact on victims so we would also hope that ministers get such legislation correct at the first time of asking, particularly by ensuring that those injured in such incidents can get the justice that they deserve.

“Making it compulsory for owners to have insurance and licences for dogs could be a big step forward in this respect, meaning that owners can be traced and victims are able to get the help and support they need.

“The impact of dog attacks cannot be underestimated and we hope to see action on this issue soon.”