The sun’s out, the kids are home, and the gates are wide open. For delivery drivers, it’s peak dog bite season.
These incidents are on the rise. The average claim jumped 18% last year, costing over $69,000 per bite. That’s not just paperwork—it’s lost time, medical bills, and stress.
In 2024, California, Texas, and Ohio led the nation in bites, with cities like LA, Houston, and Chicago topping the USPS list. Safety protocols remain the same no matter where you're delivering—but drivers in these high-risk areas should be especially vigilant about checking for dogs before approaching any property.
Dog bite incidents aren't equally distributed across the country. According to the latest USPS National Dog Bite Rankings, certain cities and states present significantly higher risks for delivery drivers.
In 2024, USPS carriers experienced over 6,000 dog attacks nationwide. Los Angeles topped the list with 77 incidents, followed by Houston with 65, and Chicago with 57.
If you're delivering in these metropolitan areas, extra vigilance is essential:
Top 10 High-Risk Cities:
California leads the nation with 701 dog bite incidents, more than double the second-place state. Texas follows with 438 incidents, while Ohio ranks third with 350.
Top 10 States for Dog Attacks on Delivery Drivers:
Several factors contribute to elevated dog bite rates in these regions:
If you're delivering between May and September, especially in high-risk cities, double down on prevention protocols. The combination of warm weather and increased outdoor activity creates the perfect conditions for dog encounters.
Think like a detective when you pull up to a stop:
If you see or suspect a dog is nearby, do not approach the property without taking extra steps:
It happens fast. Here’s what to do if a dog catches you off guard:
| Signs a dog may be aggressive | Signs a dog is calm |
|---|---|
| Ears pinned back | Ears relaxed |
| Growling, snarling or barking | Yawning or licking lips |
| Stiff posture, tail up or straight | Tail down or wagging loosely, sitting or laying down |
| Intense stare | Turning head or looking away |
Understanding body language gives you a second chance to avoid conflict. When in doubt—give space.
Dog bite prevention is more than common sense—it’s a critical part of safety for delivery drivers. Download the Dog Incident Prevention tips below. Use it in your next daily briefing. Post it in the break room. Make sure your drivers know what to watch for—and what to do when a situation gets hairy.
Safety talk information is for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for medical advice or legal compliance. Recommendations provided are general in nature; unique circumstances may not warrant or may require additional safety procedures and considerations. Kinetic, its affiliates and employees do not guarantee improved results upon the information contained herein and assume no liability in connection with the information or the provided suggestions. Kinetic does not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or complies with all laws, regulations, or standards.