As summer kicks into high gear, more people – and their pets – are out and about. Unfortunately, not all pets are friendly and summer is prime time for dog bite accidents.
It is important to know what to do to protect yourself and your rights if you are bitten or attacked by a dog. If you find yourself in this unfortunate position, here are a few things to do to ensure a better recovery:
What to Do If You Have Been Bitten or Attacked By A Dog
1. Identify the dog’s owner
Finding the dog’s owner is very important for a few reasons. Firstly, you’ll want to gather any information you can about the dog’s behavioral, medical, and disciplinary history. You’ll also want to make the owner aware (if he isn’t already) that his dog was involved in the incident and may pose a threat to others. You should also ask the dog’s owner for any applicable insurance coverage that may cover your medical expenses to treat the bite.
2. Ask for information regarding the dog’s medical history, including shot history and known diseases.
This step speaks for itself. It is productive to know (for your sake and your doctor’s sake) if the dog has any documented illnesses, or has engaged in similar violent behavior in the past.
3. Take pictures of your injuries
Pictures can help an insurance adjuster and/or an attorney assess your injuries in the event that you decide to file a personal injury claim for your dog bite.
4. See a doctor to obtain treatment
It is always better to err on the side of caution, even if you do not feel as though you need medical attention. After you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, it is imperative that you seek out medical care. You’ll want to be sure that your wounds are treated quickly and thoroughly so your chances of a full recovery are maximized.
If the owner is not known and you have no information about the dog’s medical and behavioral history, it is especially wise to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
5. Write down a list of any known witnesses
Similar to the photos you took, a list of witnesses can help shed light on the facts giving rise to your case. Witnesses to the incident can describe what happened and help your attorney and others to understand what happened when the dog attacked. These witnesses may also have knowledge of the dog’s social or behavioral history, making them especially valuable assets.
Learn more about the important role witnesses play in personal injury cases.
6. Refrain from being interviewed by the owner of the dog and/or their insurance company.
It is best to refrain from giving any statements about the subject accident to anyone other than your attorney (should you pursue litigation). The last thing you would want is for someone to “spin” your words and unjustifiably devalue your claim.
Get the Help You Need After A Dog Attack. Turn to the Dog Bite Attorneys at Maynard, O’Connor, Smith & Catalinotto.
Dog bites can be incredibly traumatic and have a powerful impact on your mental and physical well-being. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured by a dog bite or attack, you may be entitled to compensation. It is in your best interest to contact an experienced dog bite attorney right away.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Albany, Johnstown, Saugerties or the surrounding areas, please contact the team at Maynard, O’Connor as soon as possible! We can help to ensure that the evidence and information experts will need to examine your case are preserved following the incident, and can take immediate steps to protect your interests.
Give us a call today at (800) 721-3553 or contact us online for a free case review.
Related Resources:
Leash Laws in New York State >>
How To Prevent Dog Bite Injuries >>
Steps to Take After A Dog Bite Injury >>
