Getting attacked by a dog can be an extremely traumatic experience, especially when the attack and the injuries are significant. After suffering such a frightening event, many people have difficulty keeping a clear head, but in order to fully document and address the situation, there are several basic steps a dog bite victim must take. The first step is obviously to get to a safe place and seek immediate medical attention, as an untreated dog bite can lead to infection, permanent scarring and other nasty consequences.
The next step is to alert the proper authorities. Some people may be reluctant to report a dog bite to police, especially when the dog belongs to a friend or family member, since they may be worried that the dog may be put to sleep or taken from the owner. This is a difficult decision, but it’s not up to the victim to decide, this is something the police need to know about under any circumstances. By not reporting the incident, a victim is inviting trouble if the dog ever bites or injures another person in the future.
The next step is to properly document the injury, including taking photographs, which, while not pleasant, are crucial to documenting the severity of the injury. Without proof of the injuries, a victim’s compensation may be limited. Having pictures of the injuries as close to the time at which they occurred is always helpful.
Finally, people need to contact a personal injury attorney. At the initial consultation, it is helpful to be prepared to fully discuss the incident and provide as much detail as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can help people through this difficult time and help them pursue compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering and other losses. The attorneys at the Ellis Helm have represented many clients who have suffered from dog bite injuries, and are available for a consultation to discuss your case.
