What to Do Following a Dog Bite
Being bitten by a dog is stressful and frightening. Many people do not know what to do following a dog bite. Yes, you know that you need to get medical care, but what else? Here is a brief rundown of the steps that should be taken immediately following a dog bite.
Information
One of the first things to do is to gather information. You want the names and addresses of any witnesses to the attack, the name of the dog owner, the address where the dog lives and the name of the person who had control of the dog when you were bitten.
Pictures
Take pictures of any wounds that you received. This may be done by the hospital staff or even the police, but if you are able to do so, take some pictures of your own. You may want to ask someone on the scene to use your phone to take photographs.
Medical Attention
Take yourself to the doctor or, in the case of a serious attack, have someone take you to the emergency room. Dog bites need treatment, no matter how minor. Dogs have bacteria in their mouths and on their teeth that can enter puncture wounds and cause serious infection in humans.
Animal Control
There is an agency in your community that handles animal control. This may be your local police department or the dog warden. Report the bite to these people if the hospital has not done so. Answer their questions and follow their directions as it pertains to filing the necessary reports.
Being bitten by a dog can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life, but don’t let it make you forget the steps that you need to take to protect yourself. If you choose to sue the owner of the dog for your medical bills or even pain and suffering, you will need to have followed the proper steps.
If a dog has bitten you, call our dog bite lawyers as soon as possible. Our team of injury lawyers in Austin will review the details of your case and work to get you the compensation you may be entitled to by law. Call now.
