Being bitten by a dog can be a painful and scary experience. When in a situation like that, it can be difficult to know exactly what to do. If you are bitten by a dog, the most important thing that you can do is stay calm. Try not to panic and keep in mind the following steps to take after a dog bite to you or someone you care about.
1. Identify the Dog that Bit You
When you are bitten by a dog, it is imperative that you properly identify the dog that bit you and the dog’s owner as well. The identity of the dog owner is important because the dog owner is deemed the responsible party in a dog bite case. Once you know who the owner of the dog is, you should try to get the following information: the dog owner’s name, address, phone number and homeowner’s insurance policy information.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Dog bites can vary greatly in severity. However, even a minor bite can cause tissue damage or lead to infection. Additionally, sometimes bites can be more serious than they appear to be at first. It is important to get treatment for dog bites as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the bite, you should go to your doctor, the emergency room, an emergency care center, or call for an ambulance. Seeing a medical professional right away is important for your health as well as your legal case.
3. Photograph Your Injuries
Once you are able to do so, you should take photographs of all your visible dog bite injuries, including any lacerations, wounds, and torn or bloody clothing. If possible, also take photographs of the dog itself and the location where the incident took place. This will all help your case in the event that you pursue a legal claim against the owner of the dog who is responsible for the bite. It is helpful to photograph your injuries at all stages, before and after medical treatment, and months later to show any permanent scarring. If you retain an attorney, it will be recommended that you get professional photographs of your injuries taken to be submitted to the insurance company.
4. Report the Dog Bite
If you are a dog bite victim, it is also necessary to report the dog bite to your local police department and to your local animal control agency. When you report the dog bite, make sure to provide the dog owner’s name, address, and any details that you also have about the dog. If the dog that bit you is a stray dog, when you make the report you should provide a description of the dog and the location where the incident took place.
Dog bite victims often have to deal with costly medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. If you or someone you love is the victim of a dog bite, you should seek legal representation from an experienced dog bite attorney. Our experienced attorneys will be able to help you understand what to do after a dog bite, including how to obtain evidence, identify defendants and witnesses, and help you obtain compensation for your injuries.
If you are bitten or attacked by a dog in New Jersey, contact one of the experienced NJ dog bite attorneys at Villani & DeLuca for a free consultation by calling (732) 965-3350.
