What Should You Do If You've Been Bitten by a Dog?

Many of us view dogs as companions and as integral members of our family. However, in the wrong hands, these cuddly, furry friends can become dangerous. It is an owner’s responsibility to prevent a terrible dog attack and to ensure their dog does not become a threat to those around them. Continue reading to find out what you should do if you were bitten by a dog.

How to Handle a Dog Bite Injury

Much like you would handle the aftermath of any other accident, the steps you should take after being bitten by a dog are very similar.

Here is a quick checklist of what should happen next:

1. Collect the contact information for the dog owner, witnesses, and the person who had custody of the dog when the attack occurred.
2. Document your injuries by taking pictures of them. You should also continue to take pictures of your injuries even while they are being treated, to create a visual diary of the healing process.
3. Visit a doctor as soon as possible for treatment.
4. Contact the agency that does animal control in your location to file a report.

There are also some actions you should avoid in the aftermath of a dog bite injury. Common mistakes that you may make after an attacklike this can severely negativly impact your case. So, it is crucial to be cautious.

Here is a list of things you should NOT do after a dog bite injury:

1. Dogs, even aggressive ones that bite, tend to look cute; and, no matter how hurt you may be, this can tug at your heartstrings. Thus,you may even try to apologize or accept blame for the attack. Please do not do this. It can significanty damage your case.
2. Do not accept any money for your injuries or the value of your injuries. You might think you are bypassing a legal headache, but you might end up settling for less than what you need to recover from your injuries and to compensate your for your permanent scarring
3. If the dog owner is trying to argue about who is to blame for the incident, do not engage or discuss responsibility.
4. Often victims hold back information, blame themselves, or minimize the attack because they assume the dog will be euthanized otherwise. This is not true. Do not worry that statements you make to law enforcement or animal control will cause the dog to be “put down.” That never happens! Do not minimize the attack for fear of the dog being punished. The law punishes the irresponsible owner, not the dog. For example, a court may issue a citation and fine against the dog owner. Also, the court may order the owner to enroll its dog in obedience and socialization training classes. The law will not order the dog be euthanized because it attacked you.

Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Dog Bite Injury Attorney Today!

If you were bitten by a dog, contact the skilled legal team at Curtis | Walton Law for the representation you need to obtain compensation.

Call us today at (720) 815-4402 to schedule a consultation. You will not pay us any legal fees until we win your case!