If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, you may be in shock. This is likely a situation you’re unfamiliar with. These steps can help guide you through the process after being bitten or attacked by a dog.
Seek Medical Attention
The most important thing to address is physical wounds and signs of infection. Depending on the severity, you may need to go to the emergency room for medical treatment. See a doctor as soon as possible to determine the extent of the damage. There may be damage beneath the surface that is not as easily evident.
The medical professional will wash the wound to reduce the risk of infection. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antibiotic ointment.
After addressing risk of infection, the doctor will advise if you need a tetanus shot or rabies vaccine. It’s important to follow all medical advice you are given.
Find Out Information About the Dog
Get as much information as you can from the dog’s owner if they are present or you know them. Get their contact details, information on if the dog’s vaccinations are up to date, and the dog’s history. Limit your conversation with the owner and try to remain calm.
If there are any witnesses present, get their contact details as well. Make a note of the description of the dog.
Take Photos
Take any photos at the scene. Pictures of the dog, the location it happened, any bloody or torn clothing. At the hospital or doctor’s office, take photos of the wounds. As you begin to heal, photos can help document that process.
Report the Dog Attack
It’s important to report the dog attack. In Pennsylvania, you should report the bite or attack to the local police department, and you should also contact your local Department of Health. The police should automatically notify animal control authorities of a dog that bit. The state dog warden will investigate and determine if the dog should be classified as a dangerous dog.
Keep Track of Your Records
Save any bills or receipts from treating your dog bite wounds, incident reports, medical record and expenses, and any time off work. Gather any information about your dog bite claim to help with your dog bite case.
Write Your Memory of the Attack Down
As soon as you can, write out what happened. Ask anyone that was with you or witnesses to do the same. Memories can fade so it is best to record any details that you remember and how the attack happened.
Speak to a Dog Bite Attorney
Right after a dog bite, the long-term consequences may not be easy to see. Physical wounds after a dog attack can include multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and plastic surgery. You may have to take time off work to get to appointments or to recover. Medical bills and lost wages can quickly add up.
A personal injury attorney experienced with dog bite claims can help you through the process of recovering compensation. If you’re approached by an insurance company representative, direct them to speak to your dog bite attorney.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, speak to Jeffrey H. Penneys about your dog bite case. He has extensive experience with dog bite law and dog bite cases.