My Neighbor’s Dog Bit Me – What to Do Next?

Though dogs are loyal companions and wonderful domestic pets, some aggressive breeds can harm you and scar you for life.

According to the CDC, there are 32 fatalities every year in the United States due to dog attacks.

 The California Civil Code states that dog owners are liable for the damages suffered by any person who is attacked by a dog while in a public place or a private place.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog and don’t know how to proceed, this blog will help you out by exploring legal methods that you should proceed with through animal injury lawyers.

Seek Medical Attention

First thing’s first, you need to get as far away from the dog as possible and examine your wounds. Depending on the intensity of the bite, you should proceed further. if the bite isn’t severe, get first aid. If it’s bleeding profusely, contact first responders immediately.

Dog bites can spread serious diseases like rabies and tetanus, so it’s best if you don’t stall this. Get help instantly!

Take pictures of your injuries, if you can, and ask the dog’s owner to provide proof of its rabies vaccination. Keep documentation of the doctor’s records and your medical bills as evidence.

Identify the Dog and their Owner

It’s crucial that you instantly identify the dog and its owner. It’s important even if you believe that you won’t ask for any compensation.

Get Names, Phone Numbers, and Contact Info

Obtain names, phone numbers, and addresses of the owner. Also, get the names and phone numbers of witnesses. Take a photo of the dog, if you can.

You must document your injuries and any medical expenses you’re going to face. Keep the clothing that was torn or got bloody from the incident as an evidence.

File a Report

It’s important that you report to the animal authorities about your accident, especially if the dog wasn’t wearing any license tags. Get more information on the dog and if it had bitten anyone before.

Get an Attorney

You must contact an animal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Legal issues regarding dog bites can be difficult to navigate all alone.

Dog bites can cause serious harm to you both physically and emotionally. They can leave you traumatized for life.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog and need help, our dog bite attorneys at OceanBridge Law Firm, will help you with legal assistance and guidance. We’ll build your case and make sure that you’re properly compensated.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.