5 Critical Steps to Take After a Dog Attack

Being attacked by a dog can be incredibly scary, and healing can require countless medical appointments or even surgeries. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog, you may be wondering what to do next. Take a look at these tips.

After getting bitten or attacked by a dog, seek medical attention immediately. If you eventually decide to bring a claim against the dog owner, proof of medical bills can be essential. Beyond that, however, you need to get medical assistance to protect your own health and welfare.

Dog mouths contain dozens of types of bacteria, and about 18% of dog bites become infected. Rabies is the most serious infection you can get from dogs, but you may also come into contact with capnocytophaga bacteria, Pasteurella, or MRSA. If you decide to administer first aid at home, watch for signs of infection such as swelling, pus, redness, and warmth, then see a doctor immediately if you notice those symptoms.

Tetanus is also a risk with dog bites. Tetanus shots give you about 10 years of immunity. If you have not had a tetanus shot in the last decade, request one when you go to the doctor. If you aren't sure whether or not you've gotten a shot, get a booster to be on the safe side.

If a dog attacks, the owner may also face a penalty of between $50 and $2,500 for the first attack and between $200 and $5,000 for the second attack if both attacks occurred off the owner's property and the owner knew the dog had a history of attacks.

Depending on the specifics of the situation, the owner may be required to put the dog down or follow specific safety protocol. By reporting the attack to the authorities, you help to protect other people in your community from dog attacks.

In Wisconsin, dog owners are liable for any damages caused by their dog. Unfortunately, if you work directly with the dog owner or their home insurance provider, you may get offered a low-ball settlement that doesn't take all your damages into account. An attorney can negotiate with the liable parties and/or with insurers to make sure you receive a fair settlement that takes all your damages into account.

That includes medical bills, reconstructive surgeries, lost wages, or other costs you incurred as you dealt with the dog attacks. However, your settlement may also include amounts for damages such as pain and suffering or even amounts related to how disfigurement may affect your future relationships and earning opportunities.

When you consult with an attorney, they can help you identify the relevant damages for your situation. Ideally, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. The statute of limitations for dog bites is three years, but the sooner you reach out, the easier it is to build your case.

Over time, memories fade, and that even applies to traumatic incidents such as dog attacks. To ensure you get the fairest settlement possible, you may want to keep a post-accident journal.

Use a binder so you can put medical records, receipts, and even paycheck stubs into a folder. Add some blank pages where you note how you feel. In particular, note how the dog bite increased your pain levels or compromised your ability to do everyday tasks. You may also want to add contact details and notes from eyewitnesses to your binder.

To learn more about your rights after a dog attack, contact us today. At The Law Offices of Meier, Wickhem, Lyons & Schulz, we work with people who have been attacked by dogs or suffered other personal injuries.