What to Do After a Dog Bite: Top 4 Steps to Take
Dog attacks are more common than you might think. According to research done by the CDC, 4.7 million people are bitten each year in the United States. Of those, more than 800,000 require some type of medical attention. These attacks can be frightening for victims, and can leave them both injured and traumatized. If you or a loved one are wondering what to do after a dog bite, our lawyers can help you through the process. Here are 4 steps to take if you have been bitten by a dog:
1. Document the Scene
When you’re wondering what to do after a dog bite, the first step should be to document the scene. Although a dog attack can happen in the blink of an eye, you want to try and get as many photos as possible, if they can be obtained safely. This includes taking pictures of both the dog that attacked you, as well as photos of your injuries. Having the proper documentation will make it easier when you need to file a claim. If you have severe injuries, be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially if you are not familiar with the dog that attacked you. It is very easy to get an infection from an animal bite, so it is always better to air on the side of caution when it comes to getting treatment.
2. Collect Information
Because injuries from dog bites can be prevented, property owners can be held liable for your injuries. After you have called the police and filed an official report, you will want to get the name and address of the owner of the dog who attacked you. This is a vital piece of information you will need to receive a settlement. You may also want to get a copy of the homeowner’s insurance information. The reason for this is because under Tennessee state law, negligent property owners are potentially liable for injuries caused by pets. Even if the accident did not occur on their property, owners are still responsible for the actions of their dog.
3. File a Claim
If the dog bite is severe, chances are you have incurred significant damages including medical bills, lost wages, and potential scarring. All of these are reasons why you might need to pursue legal action. You can also experience mental or emotional distress because of the accident. These are also reasons why you might want to consider filing a claim. Many people do not realize that dog bites fall under the category of personal injury. This is why you need to know what to do if this happens to you or a loved one.
4. Speak to a Lawyer
If you have any questions regarding your dog attack, be sure to contact one of our professionally trained lawyers. Remember that having a lawyer doesn’t mean you have to file a lawsuit against the homeowner. It simply means you are protecting your rights, and that is what we are trained to help you do.
A dog attack can be a stressful and painful situation. When you’re wondering what to do after a dog bite, know that you do not have to go through it alone. If you or someone you know needs our help, be sure to contact us for a free consultation. We will personally review your case and provide you with expert legal advice.
