Have You Sustained a Dog Bite Injury? Know Your Rights

Dog bites are unfortunately a common occurrence in the United States, for numerous different reasons. According to statistics, one out of every six dog bite injuries requires medical attention and one out of every 14 requires emergency care. These are shocking statistics, especially if you are a dog lover/owner yourself. Unfortunately, many owners do not take the time to properly train and socialize their dogs. When this occurs, it is not uncommon for a dog to become instinctual, aggressive, and protective. In many cases, dog bite victims are left with serious injuries and mounting medical bills, which can dramatically affect their overall quality of life.

Being bit by a dog or attacked in any manner can be extremely disconcerting and scary for the victim. In some cases, the dog bite injury may be quite severe, resulting in the victim experiencing serious long-term psychological damage, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Due to the complicated nature of this crime, it can be difficult to know what your rights are following a dog bite injury. In order to ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve for your injury, it is important to take the time to learn the immediate and long-term steps after you are bitten or attacked by a dog.

What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury?

Here is a look at the steps you should take following a Dallas dog bite injury:

• Identify the dog and owner – Even though your adrenaline is likely rushing, it is important to take a deep breath and immediately identify the dog that bit you and his or her owner. Get their names and addresses as well as any pertinent witness information.

• Seek medical attention – Even if you don’t think the dog bite injury is that serious, it is important for you to seek medical attention right away. You may be at risk of infection from the dog bite and it will go a long way in court if you are able to prove you received medical care right after the incident.

• File a dog bite report – Once you have received medical attention and your injury has been treated, file a dog bite report with your respective city or county officials.

• Take pictures of your injuries – Photograph your bite wounds/injuries as soon as possible, even if this means unwrapping the gauze placed on the wound by the ER doctor. Be sure to also take pictures of any bruises and torn or bloody clothing, as well as the location of the attack. All of this information is important should the case go to court.

• Contact a dog bite attorney – Last but certainly not least, it is imperative that you contact a dog bite attorney immediately following the incident. These types of cases can get quite complicated and will undoubtedly require the knowledge and experience of a Dallas dog bite attorney.

Dog bite injuries are no laughing matter and should therefore be handled with the utmost care and respect. If you have been attacked or bitten by a dog in the Dallas area, we encourage you to contact Rad Law Firm right away so we can go over your rights and help you better understand the next step. If ignored, dog bite injuries can turn into far more serious problems for the victim, which is why it is important to be proactive and take the time to understand who is liable and what your rights are.