If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog, you are probably suffering from a great deal of trauma in the aftermath. Dogs are supposed to be loving creatures, and when one turns on you, it can feel like a deep betrayal.
Each year, there are millions of dog bite incidents in America, many of which require hospitalization. In such cases, it’s important to hire a dog bite attorney to handle the case and get as much help for the victim as possible,
Dog Attacks Can Happen Anywhere
It’s important to be cautious around stray dogs, but unfortunately, many dog attacks involve a dog that is familiar to the victim. Even if you think you know your dogs well, a change in their health or mental state could potentially cause them to turn on you. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on their behavior and be cautious when introducing them to children. Discourage against any type of rough play, as this could cause the dog to accidentally attack.
When it comes to strays, be extra cautious. Most stray dogs are simply in need of a good home, but there are some that may be sick, hungry or even rabid. Taking in a stray is a compassionate thing to do, but you shouldn’t approach the dog without being sure it won’t attack you. Always allow the dog to come to you, and avoid making direct eye contact, as dogs can sometimes take this as a sign of aggression.
Steps to Take After Getting Bit
There are several crucial steps to take after you have been bitten by a dog. If you are attacked and bitten by a dog, your first step is to assess your injuries. If they are severe, call an ambulance or have someone drive you to the hospital immediately. If your wounds are minor, you should still visit a doctor as soon as possible to receive your rabies vaccination and any other treatments you need.
Next, report the situation to the authorities and document your injuries. Please do not hesitate to do this because you are afraid the dog will be harmed. The authorities will evaluate the circumstances and decide what is best for everyone involved. When it comes to your injuries, take photographs and keep records of your medical paperwork. This will be helpful if you need to hire a dog bite lawyer after the incident.
Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
Hopefully, you won’t ever get attacked by a dog, but if you do, it’s important to hire a good dog bite lawyer. If the attack happened to your son or daughter, you may want to specifically look for a child injury lawyer. A good child injury lawyer will have the education and experience necessary to help you gather evidence and build a case. In addition, your lawyer may be able to help you get medical treatment for your injuries, especially if you are unable to pay due to lack of health insurance.
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries as the result of a dog attack, you deserve the largest amount of monetary compensation possible. Call to schedule an appointment with an attorney today.