The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that dogs bite over 4.5 million people annually. A dog bite happens when a dog’s teeth make contact with a person’s skin, resulting in a puncture, scratch, or laceration. Dog bites can happen in public, at home, or when meeting new dogs. Dog bites can be classified as mild or severe.
Your recovery and compensation after a dog bite incident depend on what you do next. Victims must be informed on how to obtain medical assistance and document the incident. Hiring a lawyer can help victims understand their legal options.
According to Stevenson and Murray, anyone involved in a dog bite case can benefit from consulting a lawyer who specializes in dog attacks.
This article will guide you through the steps to take after a dog bite incident.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Find the nearest hospital or avail of urgent care services. Victims need to act quickly since a dog bite injury can introduce infection to the body and result in severe complications.
Your attending doctor will clean the wound, assess its depth, determine whether stitches are required, and administer a tetanus shot. If the dog’s immunization status cannot be verified, the doctor might give a rabies vaccination just in case.
The sooner you receive medical treatment, the lower your chances of developing serious complications. Avoid waiting for any symptoms and prioritize your health and safety.
Louisiana dog bite lawyer Joseph M. W. Burke says you should always go to a doctor after being bitten by a dog.
Report the Incident
When a dog bite requires immediate medical attention, the appropriate authorities should be notified right away. Local animal control might be involved, and possibly even local law enforcement.
Reporting helps maintain the safety of others while also creating an official record of the events. Provide important information to the appropriate authorities, such as the dog’s owner’s name, whether an injury occurred, and the details of the attack.
The authorities may proceed to evaluate whether or not the dog still poses an existing threat. This approach protects both the public and your case if you decide to pursue legal action later.
Gather Evidence and Documentation
After a dog bite, it’s critical to gather evidence and documentation as soon as possible to build a strong case.
Begin by photographing your injuries from every possible angle. Document the scene of the incident. If possible, obtain statements from witnesses or anyone who may have witnessed the events that led up to the bite.
Make photocopies of any medical records or bills you receive in relation to the incident. Record every detail you can remember regarding the incident, such as the date, time, and weather.
You can ask a dog bite lawyer to help you organize any correspondence you have had with the dog owner or the insurance company. These records will help to support your case and provide your attorney with the necessary facts to assist you.
Understand Your Legal Rights
Knowing your legal rights allows you to take appropriate action to pursue a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering.
Dog bite laws vary by state, with the majority based on strict liability or negligence. If the owner was aware of his or her dog’s aggressive tendencies, liability may exist.
Understanding your state’s statute of limitations is important for your case, as it establishes the deadline for filing your claim.
Knowing your rights will motivate you to seek appropriate legal action and compensation for your injuries.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
Aside from immediately seeking medical treatment, you also need to consult a personal injury lawyer to help you deal with the complications of a dog bite case. These legal professionals possess specialized knowledge about dog bite regulations and policies, allowing them to conduct a thorough analysis of your case. Their analysis can reveal the strengths and weaknesses of your case and determine whether you have a valid claim.
Your dog bite lawyer can assist you in studying the scope of your injury and procuring witness statements. A lawyer’s support and legal guidance will strengthen your dog bite claim.
Lawyers are ready to negotiate with insurance representatives on your behalf to secure the highest possible settlement. They will be your primary legal representative and will work tirelessly to represent your interests in court.