Victims are often in shock after being attacked by a dog. Even if the dog is familiar to the victim, processing that a dog bite or dog attack has just happened can be difficult.
Try to stay calm. It is always important to seek medical help as the first step. Below are other recommendations to follow.
Seek Medical Attention After Being Attacked By A Dog
If the dog attack has left an open wound, it’s always a good idea to seek out medical care. A doctor will be able to determine if you need vaccinations, such as for rabies or tetanus, and treat the wounds.
There may be longer-term impacts, after being attacked by a dog, that may not be immediately apparent. It is also important to pay attention to an infection developing from the wounds. Follow your doctor’s instructions for care and take all medications as prescribed.
Identify the Dog’s Owner and any Witnesses
If you don’t know the dog, try to find out the name and contact information of the dog’s owner. Remain calm. Find out if the dog’s vaccinations have been kept up to date and which ones the dog has received. Ask for proof of the vaccinations.
It’s best to limit your conversation with the dog’s owner about the attack. This includes any insurance company that may contact you; refer them to your lawyer.
If there were any witnesses to the attack, gather their contact information and any statements they have as well.
Document Injuries and the Incident
Take any photos you can of the dog, the scene of the attack, your injuries, and any torn or bloody clothing. Write down what you remember about the attack and ask any witnesses for written statements. Keep all your medical records and any receipts for prescriptions or medical visits.
Report the Dog Attack
Dog bites and dog attacks should be reported to the appropriate authorities. In New Jersey, in most cases, that is the local health authority or animal control. If you’ve been to see a doctor, that physician is also required to report the dog bite.
The local board will have the authority to confine the dog or take further action. When you report the incident, authorities will be able to maintain a record of aggressive dogs. This may help future victims with bite injuries as well as your case.
Speak to a Dog Bite Attorney
Contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible after being attacked by a dog. There is no fee to speak to David J. Cowhey who can advise you on your case. It may be some time before you know the full extent of your injuries and the costs involved. It’s best to be prepared and have an experienced dog bite attorney advise you on the best course of action.
Begin a Journal
If you’re seeking medical compensation for your injuries, or think you might be, spend a bit of time each day recording in a journal. Write down everything you can remember about the attack. In the following days write about the pain you’re feeling on a day-to-day basis and the impacts on your life.
Contact The NJ Dog Bite Lawyer
A victim likely is not thinking about pursuing compensation immediately following a dog attack, but it’s always a good idea to gather as much information as possible so that you know your options. It is often the case that the full impacts are discovered at a later date. Speaking to an experienced and skilled attorney, like David J.Cowhey, will help you to understand the situation from an objective point of view and provide you with critical information.
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