If you have been bitten by a dog, the first thing to do is thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water to remove any bacteria and debris. Make sure to rinse the wound well and apply antibiotic ointment and bandage it loosely. Secondly, take photos of the injury to document how serious it was immediately after it happened. These photos can be very helpful evidence later on for your legal case.
If you are able, write down details of what happened while the incident is still fresh in your mind. Include details of the location, date and time, your activities before the incident, the dog’s behavior, and any witnesses. If possible, try to get contact information from witnesses.
If your injuries are severe, present them at the closest Emergency Room or Urgent Care. If they are manageable, contact your doctor as soon as possible to discuss the wound and your tetanus vaccination status. You may need stitches, antibiotics, or a rabies shot depending on the severity of the injury. Follow all of the doctor’s instructions closely to prevent complications and support healing.
Finally, it’s imperative to contact a personal injury lawyer from an established firm such as Law One to learn about your legal options. They will evaluate the strength of your case and advise you on what compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A lawyer can also help guide you through the claims process with the dog owner’s insurance.
Your main focus immediately after a dog bite is to properly treat the injury and gather as much evidence and documentation as you can. Seeking legal counsel from an experienced attorney can also help ensure you are appropriately compensated for your injuries and losses.
Law One emphasizes Personal Injury Law, and we’ve worked with numerous clients in the aftermath of dog bites. Last year, we recovered over $800,000 in one case alone. Our experienced team will help you navigate the process after a dog bite injury and will achieve the maximum settlement. If you have questions or concerns regarding a dog bite case, just call our office at (303) 831-8313.