There are plenty of different types of personal injury. From injuries in the workplace, at a friends house, on the lake, and even in the dog park. You might find that, in any setting, something can occur which alters your quality of life. Take, for example, if you’re bit by a dog. Dog bite injuries can be serious, painful, and can lead to infection if not handled properly.
Therefore, if you’re bit by a dog— what steps can you take to ensure your safety, treat your injury, and avoid paying for an injury which was out of your control? In the event of a dog bite, there are a few different things you’ll need to do to cover your bases, and treat your wound…
Dog Bite Injuries: Post-Incident Steps
When you’re bitten…
At the time of dog bite injuries, if you’re in the condition to do so, you should take a few actions. If possible, request vaccination records for the dog that has bitten you. Vaccination records will help to establish whether or not the dog that has bit you has also put you at risk of rabies. Furthermore, you’ll want to get information regarding the owner, dog, and their contact information.
After you’re bitten…
Depending on the severity of the injury, you’ll want to consult with a doctor and establish a treatment plan. The bite may cause a puncture wound, a broken bone, or serious bruising. The type of resulting injuries can go on to determine how a doctor will treat the wound.
Now that you’re on the path to healing, it’s time to decide what exactly you want to do in terms of legal and financial actions. Do you plan to take the owner to court? Do you merely want to be reimbursed for your medical costs? And furthermore, do you want to take action in terms of the dog who bit you?
Many people who sustain dog bite injuries will file a report with local animal control agencies. In doing so, there is the possibility that the dog will be taken away, or put down. While your course of action is entirely up to you— you ultimately must decide whether you think the dog is a danger to others.
If you choose to press charges…
Most personal injury lawyers are well-versed in dog bite cases. Therefore, personal injury attorneys will be able to help you navigate a course of action. In short, many dog bite cases can result in settlements that help to cover your medical bills and resulting trauma. Every state has different laws when it comes to dog bite injuries. Your lawyer will help you to understand those laws, as well as the best argument and potential outcomes.