Watch Out, Postal Workers! LA Leads in USPS Dog Bite Cases
LOS ANGELES, CA (May 31, 2024) — The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) reported a rise in dog bite incidents involving its employees in 2023, with Los Angeles recording the highest number of attacks. This announcement coincides with the launch of the annual National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign, which begins on June 2 and aims to promote responsible pet ownership.
In 2023, there were 5,800 dog bite cases reported by postal employees across the country. This year’s campaign theme, “Don’t let your dog bite the hand that serves you,” underscores the importance of keeping mail carriers safe.
Leeann Theriault, USPS Manager of Employee Safety and Health Awareness, stressed the significance of responsible pet ownership in ensuring the safety of mail delivery. “The U.S. Postal Service consistently encourages responsible pet ownership. The national dog bite campaign is an effort to promote dog bite awareness to keep our customers, their dogs, and letter carriers safe while delivering the mail,” Theriault stated.
Mail carriers are trained to deal with dogs but are advised never to assume a dog won’t bite. Residents are encouraged to keep dogs inside, behind a fence, or on a leash during mail delivery times. Children should be advised not to take mail directly from carriers to prevent the dog from perceiving the carrier as a threat.
Mail service may be suspended if a carrier feels unsafe, requiring customers to collect their mail from the Post Office until it is deemed safe to resume delivery.
Los Angeles topped the list with 65 USPS dog bite cases in 2023. Other cities with high numbers of incidents included Houston with 56, Chicago with 48, St. Louis with 46, and Cleveland with 44.
For those affected by dog bite incidents, contact RTM Law Firm for expert legal assistance in seeking compensation for injuries. Our California dog bite injury attorneys are here to help you handle the legal process and ensure you receive the justice you deserve. Call us for a free consultation.
