Chicago, Illinois – Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, a leading Chicago personal injury law firm, has been seeking justice for injury victims for over 30 years. Paul Greenberg, a partner at the firm, recently sat down with the Chicago Sun-Times to discuss an overlooked consequence of dog bites: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

According to the Mayo Clinic, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about the event that cause significant problems in social or work situations and in relationships. PTSD can also interfere with the individual’s ability to go about their normal daily tasks. The condition may last for months or even years, with triggers that bring back memories of the trauma accompanied by intense emotional and physical reactions.

While injuries and disfigurement from a dog bite are visible and immediate, the psychological scars left behind are often downplayed or overlooked. “Victims of dog bites will more often than not develop some post-traumatic stress disorder,” Greenberg explained. “The impact of this trauma can drastically alter the quality of life for victims.”

In the article, the Sun-Times highlights the case of Nakia Childs, 48, who experienced acute PTSD after being bitten by a dog in her workplace. Once known as the “dog whisperer”, Nakia’s interaction with dogs is now riddled with fear. With the help of Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, she was able to secure monetary recovery for her dog bite injuries, but the recovery from trauma is a journey that she continues to navigate.

Financial recovery can be a complex process, particularly if the dog owner is unknown or uninsured. Unlike car insurance, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance isn’t legally required, which can complicate matters for victims seeking compensation.

The attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg are drawing attention to the silent epidemic of PTSD after dog bites, advocating for victims and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve.

Paul Greenberg’s conversation with the Sun-Times not only raises awareness about the psychological scars of dog bites, but also underlines the need for legal support for victims grappling with the after-effects of such experiences. As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, so too does the legal landscape surrounding personal injury and trauma.