There are an estimated 3.73 million dog bites in the United States each year. People love their pets, but sometimes they bite, which can result in serious injuries. Dog bites can be very serious and should be handled carefully. The time immediately following an attack is crucial, so here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately.
The first thing a person should do after getting bitten by a dog is seek medical attention, even if the bite does not seem that severe. Bites can result in bruises, cuts, scratches, and puncture wounds. Animals can carry diseases like rabies and pass them to humans through bites, so it’s essential to get treated as soon as possible. Additionally, 12 to 15 people die each year as a result of an infection that develops after a dog bite.
2. Gather Information.
After seeking medical attention, the person who was bitten should gather as much information as possible. He or she should take pictures of any bite wounds and pictures of the dog and the scene. If the owner is present, the injured person should make sure to learn as much about the dog as possible, like if the animal has a history of biting, if it is updated on its vaccinations, and if it’s healthy. The injured person should also get personal contact information from the dog’s owner.
3. Call a Personal Injury Lawyer.
After seeking medical attention and gathering as much information as possible, the bite victim should call a personal injury lawyer. Determining liability can be tricky in personal injury lawsuits, and having experienced and professional counsel could help the bite victim get the right amount of compensation.
Have you ever been the victim of a dog attack or bite wound and filed a personal injury case as a result? Feel free to tell us about it in the comments section. To see more, read this.