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While most dogs live up to their role as man’s best friend, any canine has the potential to suddenly become aggressive. When this happens, the resulting injuries can have major medical and financial ramifications. Thus, it’s crucial for dog bite victims to know how to handle the situation properly and pursue legal action if necessary. The actions you take after an injury will impact your recovery as well as your ability to collect damages. Here’s what you should know. 

What Should Dog Bite Victims Do After an Attack?

1. Get Medical Attention 

Your top priority after being attacked by a dog should be to get proper medical attention. This is especially true if you have any puncture wounds, as these are prone to infection. Having a record of your treatment will also serve as essential evidence if you choose to pursue a personal injury claim. 

2. Gather Information About the Dog & Its Owner 

dog bite victimIf you wish to pursue compensation for your injuries, you must be able to identify the dog that bit you and its owner. Be sure to get the owner’s name and contact information as well as the dog’s breed and vaccination history. This will help your doctor determine whether or not it’s necessary to administer a rabies treatment. A canine’s breed and its tendency toward aggression can also play a big role in the owner’s liability in a case. 

3. Report the Incident 

The next step should involve reporting the attack to law enforcement and your local animal control. Both will create a detailed report of what happened and conduct an investigation into the incident. Starting a paper trail can also help future dog bite victims get justice for their injuries. 

4. Keep Detailed Records 

In the days and weeks following the attack, document everything, from treatment to pain level. This involves taking photos of your injuries and the scene where the attack took place, writing down witness statements, and keeping a journal that goes over how becoming a dog bite victim has affected your day-to-day life. 

5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney 

If your injuries affect your physical or emotional well-being and you choose to pursue a personal injury case, seek counsel from an attorney who regularly handles dog bite cases. Laws surrounding dog attacks can be complicated, and an attorney will help you navigate through all the legal complexities. They will also know how to accurately evaluate your injuries and negotiate with the insurance company to make sure you receive a fair settlement offer. 

 

Knowing what to do after being bitten by a dog is important for your physical and financial well-being. With 60 years of experience, The Law Office of Gregory S. Young has helped many dog bite victims throughout Ohio and Kentucky pursue the maximum compensation they deserve. When you work with a personal injury attorney from this firm, you’ll receive legal representation that is dedicated to protecting your rights and holding negligent parties responsible for their actions. Call (513) 721-1077 today to schedule a consultation or visit their website for more information on their services. 

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