If you or your family member has been bitten by a dog, it is important that you understand your legal rights. It is also crucial that you take actions that will ensure that your rights will be protected in the future. What you do soon after a dog attack can also affect the amount of compensation you receive for injuries, damages and losses sustained in the attack. Here are some tips on what you can do soon after you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog:
First, identify the dog. It is important to find out who the owner or caretaker is. Negligent dog owners who fail to restrain their pets can be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Gather information about the dog including the name and address of the dog owner, the dog’s license information and whether it had a prior history of viciousness.
Seek medical attention immediately. The risk of infection from a dog bite must not be ignored. You may need stitches or sometimes even surgeries to repair the bite or puncture wounds.
File a report with the city or county animal control department. This provides legal documentation for your case.
Make sure you photograph your injuries. Take photos of all your wounds including torn and bloody clothing and the location where the attack occurred.
Maintain a journal. Record your thoughts for the first few weeks after the attack. Write about the pain you felt, the treatments you underwent and the stress level you felt during this time.
Contact an attorney. The best time to contact a dog bite attorney is now, not later. The legal issues surrounding dog attacks can be complex. An experienced personal injury lawyer will fight for your rights and help protect your best interests.
The skilled dog bite lawyers of The Breyer Law Offices P.C. have successfully represented dog bite victims and helped them obtain fair and full compensation for all medical expenses, lost wages and even cost of cosmetic surgery, which may not be covered by insurance. Contact us today to obtain more information about your legal rights and options.