When we think of dogs, the first thing that comes to mind is their playful nature, wagging their tails and following their humans around. However, a man’s best friend might not always be in a good mood, and you might have to deal with the consequences. Did you know that sustaining a dog bite can lead to legal, medical, and even financial implications in the long run? This is why it is crucial to understand what steps should be followed after a dog bite, especially if the puppy belongs to someone else and you are planning on getting a personal injury lawsuit filed.

• The first thing you should do if you are bitten by a dog is seek immediate medical care. This is crucial if the dog bite causes puncture and similar serious wounds. The dog that bites you may not be vaccinated against rabies, and your puncture wound might get infected. Visit the emergency room at the earliest to get the treatment started as soon as possible.
• Exchange crucial information with the dog owner after the incident. If this isn’t possible, ask a friend or family member to do the same. Collecting this information will help you contact the dog owners later when you want to claim damages. Some crucial details you should collect are the dog owner’s name, contact details, address, and insurance details. Also, don’t forget to inquire about the dog’s breed and vaccination information.
• If the incident occurred in a public place, chances are high that you will have multiple witnesses. Getting them to speak for you can be of great help once you file an insurance claim and wish to pursue legal action. Eyewitnesses can help paint an accurate picture of the actual event; thus, getting their viewpoint is beneficial. Don’t forget to collect their contact information.
• Once a dog bites you, there is always a chance the dog will bite another person. To keep others safe from succumbing to a similar incident, it’s advisable to file a dog bite report with the local animal control agency. They might investigate the case and label the dog as dangerous. Their investigation reports can also turn the case in your favor as you file for a personal injury claim. The dog owner might also face criminal charges for violation of the state or city law if the dog was off leash when it attacked you.
• It is vital to document all injuries you sustained from the dog bite, including disfigurement and visible injuries. Try and keep a journal of the effects, whether they are immediate, like decreased mobility, or more long-term, like post-traumatic stress disorder. You can take photos and videos or assemble your medical records as journal components. It will be easier to file for compensation if you have more evidence, like prescriptions, medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Conclusion

An experienced attorney can be a resourceful ally in safeguarding your rights against being bitten by another person’s canine. Ace Law experts possess years of knowledge on personal injury cases like dog bites and can help you file a rightful claim so that you don’t have to struggle with your medical bills as you get treated for your injuries.