Dogs are generally friendly pets. However, some dog breeds can be aggressive and can, even without provocation, attack and cause serious injuries. If you are attacked and injured by someone’s dog in a public place or while you are lawfully on their property, then you may be entitled to compensation.
However, what you do after the dog bite incident can greatly impact the outcome of your claim. Here are three important steps you need to take following a dog attack.
Seek treatment
Besides physical injuries like lacerations, disfigurement and broken bones, a dog attack can also lead to serious infections. Dogs, especially unvaccinated ones, are known to be vectors of deadly pathogens. Seeing a doctor immediately following a dog bite will ensure that you receive an anti-rabies vaccine as well as treatment for other infections.
Besides getting the treatment you need, seeking treatment after a dog attack ensures that you obtain the doctor’s report, which will be critical to your claim. Without a doctor’s report, you will have a hard time proving your case.
Document your injuries
Still on evidence, it is important that you take photos of your injuries. Be sure to take photos of your wounds because you will need this in court. Additionally, make effort to identify the dog owner and, if possible, exchange contacts.
File your claim
From medical costs to missed work, a dog attack can leave you with a huge bill. To recover the damages you may be entitled to, you must sue the liable party. However, you cannot do this at your convenience. In California, you have two years to sue for a dog attack. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it is extremely important that you file your claim within the two-year period.
A dog attack can leave you disoriented and hurt. Find out how you can pursue the damages you are entitled to following a dog attack that is not your fault.