What Happens If You’re Bitten by a Dog?
Facing a personal injury can be a horrifying experience. When it comes to dealing with dog bites, however, you aren’t alone. If you’ve been injured by a dog, there are a few things you need to understand about your legal rights.
If you enjoy spending time outdoors, chances are you’ve seen people out with their dogs. Maybe you enjoy hiking in the mountains, eating picnics in the park, or even jogging on local roads. You deserve to be able to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities safely. You shouldn’t have to worry about being bitten by a dog. Unfortunately, it’s possible for a lovely afternoon to become dangerous if another person’s dog chooses to attack you. If you have been bitten by a dog through no fault of your own, there are a few things you need to understand.
Risks
While most people don’t consider dogs to be dangerous creatures, even small dogs can cause deep bites when they attack. Dog bites carry with them a variety of risks. Even minor dog bites can quickly become serious if you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as cancer, diabetes, or an immune deficiency. Dog bites that break the skin can quickly lead to infection, as well as other problems. Keep in mind that some dogs may carry diseases or bacteria that is harmful to humans. If you have been bitten by a dog, you are at greater risk for diseases such as rabies or tetanus.
Treatment
After a dog bite occurs, you may feel anxious, scared, or worried. It’s important to try to remain calm. Seek medical care as soon as you can. Your personal physician will be able to assist you in treating the dog bite. A medical professional can help clean the wound, as well as offer stitches if necessary. In some cases, your provider may want to give you a vaccine in order to prevent further complications. Keep in mind that visiting your medical provider is an important step. It not only ensures that your bite can begin healing as soon as possible, but that you have a record of the date and time the dog bite occurred.
Legal Assistance
If you have been bitten by someone else’s dog, you may need to pursue legal action in order to get the care and the compensation that you need to move forward with your life. Don’t wait. Reach out to an attorney as soon as you’re bitten by a dog. It’s important to speak with a lawyer promptly because the experience will be fresh in your mind, so you’ll be able to give a thorough and accurate statement. It may also be easier for your attorney to gather information and build a case to support you. Keep in mind that many states also have a statute of limitations when it comes to pursuing legal action, which makes acting promptly even more important to building an incredible case.
Call today to schedule your consultation about your personal injury case.