As a delivery driver in Alabama, you likely encounter dogs on a regular basis during your routes. While most dogs are friendly, dog bites do happen and can cause serious injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 4.5 million dog bites every year in the United States, with 800,000 requiring medical care. Dog bites are especially common for delivery drivers, mail carriers, meter readers, and other professionals who regularly come into contact with dogs on private property.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent dog bites and stay safe on your delivery route in Alabama. Here are some dog bite prevention tips specifically for delivery drivers in AL.
Be Aware of High-Risk Homes
- Watch for homes with dogs not restrained on the property. Dogs that are loose or chained up with access to the driveway are more likely to bite.
- Note homes with ‘Beware of Dog’ signs or visible dog houses/kennels. This indicates that dogs likely live there.
- If you’ve been bitten by a dog at a certain home before, flag that address and take extra caution there.
- Ask colleagues about problem addresses with aggressive dogs. Share information about high-risk homes.
- When arriving at a house, listen for barking, growling, or other signs of an agitated dog before exiting the vehicle.
- If you deliver to a rural area, expect more unrestrained dogs since properties are larger. Take precautions.
- Drive slowly on streets and scan yards for roaming dogs. Being aware of your surroundings can help prevent surprise attacks.
Use Dog Repellants When Necessary
- Carry EPA-approved dog repellent spray when making deliveries. Brands like Muzzle and Halt are safe and effective.
- Use citronella spray, air horns, or umbrellas to startle aggressive dogs if needed.
- Throw treats or toys to distract dogs from biting you. Anything to divert the dog’s attention from attacking can help.
- Test dog repellent sprays before needing them to know how to operate them properly under pressure.
- Position repellent spray canisters for easy access on your belt, in a pocket or bag strap. You want to be able to grab them quickly if a dog charges.
- Check expiration dates and replace empty or expired repellent cans right away. Old or non-functioning sprays give false confidence.
Avoid Exciting Dogs
- Move slowly and avoid direct eye contact, which can seem aggressive to dogs.
- Do not scream, yell, or wave your arms around, which can rile up dogs.
- Do not make sudden moves or lunge at dogs, even in play. Their natural instinct may be to chase you.
- Speak in a calm, authoritative voice to reassure dogs you are not a threat.
- Snack foods in your delivery bag can smell enticing to dogs. Keep food sealed away and bags zipped up.
- Perfumes, colognes, and scented products can also attract dog attention. Go easy on strong fragrances.
Protect Yourself During Deliveries
- If a dog approaches aggressively, place your delivery bag, clipboard, or other object between you and the dog.
- Carry a sturdy stick or noisemaker to scare dogs away if needed.
- If you carry mace or a weapon, know the laws in Alabama to avoid penalties.
- Consider wearing protective clothing like long sleeves, thick gloves, and tall boots.
- Deliver to an alternative safe spot like a front porch instead of near a backyard dog.
- Keep your distance from even seemingly friendly dogs. Do not attempt to pet or engage with unknown dogs.
- If you must enter a yard, determine your escape route in advance in case you need to exit quickly.
- Only enter yards or properties with dogs when absolutely required for the delivery. Limit exposure.
Report Dog Bite Incidents
- Notify animal control to file a report if you suffer any dog bite, even minor ones. This creates a record of problem pets and owners.
- Inform your supervisor and the homeowner if bitten so additional precautions can be taken.
- Take photos of injuries for your records and get medical attention right away.
- Consult a dog bite attorney in Alabama if the wound is severe. You may have grounds for compensation.
- Give statements to authorities if the attack was serious. Your account of events can aid investigations.
- Write down all details of the incident while fresh in your mind. These can bolster any claims if needed.
- Save records of medical bills, lost wages, therapy, or other costs related to the dog bite injury.
Use Caution with Certain Dog Breeds
- Be extra wary of pit bulls, rottweilers, German shepherds, and other large breed dogs. They account for the most bites.
- Small dogs like Chihuahuas and dachshunds can bite too. Don’t let down your guard because they are little.
- Brush up on identifying dog breeds and typical traits. This allows you to assess the risks more accurately.
- While any dog can bite, those bred for protection, hunting, or fighting tend to be more prone to aggression.
- Mixed breed dogs can inherit instincts from multiple lineages. Their behavior may be less predictable.
- Ask owners about their dog’s history and temperament to gauge safety before approaching.
Don’t Enter Yards with Unrestrained Dogs
- If a dog is roaming a yard freely, call the owner to secure the dog before attempting delivery.
- Abort the delivery if the owner cannot contain their dog. Some packages just aren’t worth the risk.
- Ask owners to crate or leash dogs before entering a yard to drop off a package. It’s a reasonable request.
- If owners refuse to restrain dogs, deliver to their front door/porch only. Do not enter risky areas.
- Report owners who outright refuse to control aggressive dogs. They endanger others in the neighborhood too.
- For persistent problem addresses, speak to supervisors about suspending deliveries for safety reasons.
Contact Us Today
Following these dog bite prevention tips can help protect delivery drivers in Alabama from aggressive dog attacks. While most pet owners restrain dogs properly, you will inevitably encounter unrestrained and territorial dogs during your deliveries. Exercising caution, avoiding high risk situations with dogs, and using repellants when needed can help you complete your route safely each day.
Don’t hesitate to contact the dog bite attorneys at Monge & Associates for a free consultation by calling (888) 477-0597 if you suffer a serious dog bite injury. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Alabama, Missouri, and Kansas, we have the experience needed to get you the compensation you deserve. Stay vigilant and stay protected!