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Dog bites can be a scary and traumatizing incident. Unfortunately, they happen quite frequently. They can happen to children going up to pet an untrained dog or to adults simply walking by. It’s nearly impossible to plan for a dog bite, so when it happens, you need to act quickly. There are steps you should take not only to ensure your safety but also to take rightful legal action.
1. Seek Medical Attention
First and foremost, make sure you or the bite victim seek appropriate medical care. Animal bites can easily become infected, leading to additional issues. A medical professional will likely clean the wound, apply antibiotic cream, and cover it with a sterile bandage or wrap. In more extreme cases, additional care may be required.
2. Gather Information
After you have called medical personnel or initiated getting care, gather as much information as you can. Figure out the dog’s name, breed, and other identifying details. Gather its owner’s name, address, and contact information. You can also inquire if the dog is up-to-date with its vaccines, especially its rabies vaccine.
3. Take Pictures and Save Medical Records
When you file a legal claim regarding a dog bite, you will need evidence. Take several pictures of the wound to show proof and severity of the injury. You should also keep any paperwork and bills associated with your medical care after the bite. This includes proof of diagnoses, treatment records, and costs of appointments and medications.
4. File a Dog Bite Report
You must file a dog bite report with your municipal government. This helps document the incident and start a record if it needs to be accessed by authorities. You may find that others have documented similar issues with the same dog, which can further support your case if it has a history of aggressive behavior.
5. Track the Impact on Your Life
Dog bites may seem like a small incident if they haven’t happened to you. However, they can have a huge impact on your life. They may limit what you can do, especially if they occur on your hands and arms. They may keep you out of work, result in pain and discomfort, create a long-lasting sense of fear, and lead to trauma. Keep track of everything you have to deal with after the bite, as this can be used to support your claim.
6. Move Forward with Legal Action
Now that you’ve done all the work necessary to begin a legal claim, it’s time to contact an attorney. Do your research and look for an attorney with experience in handling dog bite cases, such as the dog bite attorneys at Steven A. Bagen & Associates. They will understand what goes into building a strong case and earning you the compensation you deserve. With help from a lawyer, you can focus on your own care and healing while they work toward winning you financial help.
If you or someone you know face a dog bite injury, take action. These incidents can cause a series of medical issues and financial grievances. Filing a dog bite claim can help you earn the compensation you deserve to support your recovery.
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