Dog bites can lead to more than physical injuries. They can result in financial losses due to an inability to work, emotional trauma, and legal disputes that require careful handling. Knowing the steps to take will help preserve your claim while laying the following foundation.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Knowing what to do if a dog bites you protects you and your legal rights. First and foremost, seek medical attention. Even minor wounds can lead to infections or complications, so clean the wound thoroughly and consult a healthcare professional. Document your medical treatment, including photos of your injuries and records of any medications or follow-up care. These records will show the true extent of your injuries and will likely be used in your case.
Identify the dog and its owner. Ask for the owner’s contact information and the dog’s vaccination history, particularly rabies shots. If the owner is not cooperative, contact local animal control to help verify the dog’s records. Witnesses can also be invaluable, but you do not have to conduct formal interviews with them. At the very least, get their contact information so they can assist you and your attorney after you have gotten medical treatment.
Report the bite to animal control or the health department. An official report records the incident and ensures the dog’s behavior is evaluated for public safety risks. Finally, consult with a legal professional who can determine the specifics of your case and guide you through the process of pursuing compensation if necessary.
What Civil Litigation Looks Like After a Dog Bite
Dog bite cases often lead to civil litigation because it is the path toward getting compensation for injuries. Typically, this process begins with obtaining legal counsel and allowing them to file a claim against the dog owner or other responsible parties. Although you would assume that this would always be the dog’s owner, there could be instances where the landlord or property owner failed to address a known risk.
Liability in dog bite cases depends on state laws. In some states, strict liability applies, meaning the owner is automatically responsible for damages caused by their dog. However, in states with a “one-bite rule,” like Virginia, the injured party must prove that the dog’s owner knew their pet was dangerous or should have known. This could involve evidence of previous aggressive behavior or failure to restrain the dog properly.
Damages in these cases can include economic losses like medical expenses, lost wages, and future treatment costs. Whereas these components are quantifiable, an attorney will also work closely with you to determine an appropriate number for pain and suffering and mental trauma.
Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter others from acting similarly, mainly if the defendant acted dangerously or recklessly. For example, this could apply to someone intentionally setting a dangerous dog loose.
Nothing says you are guaranteed to go to court or endure a lengthy trial. Many cases can be resolved through a series of negotiations that result in a settlement. However, the case may proceed to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Regardless of where your case takes you, remember that you need to lay the groundwork for pursuing litigation. This applies to getting seen by a doctor, photographing your injuries, and having contact information for anyone who witnessed the incident.
Speak To Professional & Compassionate Legal Counselors
Dog bites can result in complex legal disputes, but taking the proper steps and seeking experienced guidance can make the process more manageable. Preparation is key to achieving a fair resolution, from addressing immediate medical needs to navigating the nuances of civil litigation. Contact us to discuss your options, and let us help you protect your rights and secure a path forward.
Norton Pelt
