What to Do After a Dog Bite
Updated February 26, 2019 | By Wilson Kehoe Winingham staff
Dogs make wonderful pets, and many of us have them in our homes. However, dog bites can cause severe injuries that result in costly medical expenses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4 million people are bitten by dogs annually. Unfortunately, more than 20,000 of these victims have to undergo some type of surgery to help repair these injuries.
Sadly, most victims of dog bites are children. Not only will they have to live with a lifelong fear of strange dogs, but they might also carry serious scars for the rest of their lives. As a parent, you will face mounting medical bills to care for your child after a dog bite, especially if they require reconstructive surgery to minimize scaring.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
While an attack from a dog can be distressing, it is important to follow these important and simple steps.
Identify the Animal and Owner
It is crucial to obtain the identity of the animal that bit you and its owner whenever possible. Being bitten by a stray means having to go through painful treatment for rabies and could preclude any possibility of civil damages because there is no human owner to charge.
Take Photographs of Injuries
Ensure that you take photographs of the injuries sustained prior to receiving treatment. Photographic evidence is the first step in establishing the severity of the injuries and may even allow expert testimony to corroborate that the injuries were sustained by a dog bite.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek the care of a physician who can document the dog bite incident and provide treatment. Doctors can also testify in court to the severity of the injuries sustained and what they believe to be the cause.
Contact Animal Control
File a report with the local animal control agency. Be sure to fully cooperate with the investigating officers, as they are some of the most valuable resources in the event of a dog bite.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog, contact an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer from Wilson Kehoe Winingham. The lawyers at WKW can help you and your family get the compensation you deserve. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
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Let WKW put our experience to work for you. Contact us for your free case evaluation.
Or, call us today at (317) 920-6400
