What to Do After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack

While any encounter with an aggressive animal is serious, a dog bite is the most frequent type of incident reported. Taking the right immediate steps is vital for your physical recovery and for protecting your legal options.

• Prioritize Medical Care: Even if a dog bite seems minor, seek medical attention immediately to prevent infection and create an official record of the injury.

• Identify the Owner: If possible, obtain contact information from the person in control of the animal to verify vaccination history.

• Document the Scene: Take detailed photographs of your injuries and the area where the incident occurred, if possible. If the animal attack occurred in a private property, be sure to note if any warning signs were present or were inadequate considering the specific circumstances.

• Gather Witness Information: If anyone saw the dog bite happen, collect their contact details, as their statements can be pivotal in corroborating your account.

• Preserve All Records: Keep a thorough file of all medical bills, treatment records, and receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to the animal bite.

Understanding Liability and Legal Rights

Determining responsibility after a dog bite often involves navigating complex local laws regarding owner negligence and strict liability.

Because California has a strictly enforced statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, taking timely action is essential. Consulting an experienced legal professional can help clarify your rights and ensure you are positioned to seek fair compensation for damages including medical costs, past and future lost wages, future medical care, and pain and suffering.

Since timely legal action is important due to statutes of limitations, contact us promptly to ensure your claim is protected and your best interests are represented.