If you are bitten by someone else’s dog, they can be held liable for your medical expenses that stemmed from the dog bite. However, immediately after being bitten, you are likely more worried about what you should do in the aftermath rather than the potential compensation.
If a Dog Bites You, Do These 5 Things
To safely respond to a dog bite injury, you should take the following five actions.
- Get medical attention. After a dog bite, even a minor one, you should treat the wound and consult with a medical professional concerning a treatment plan. To treat a dog bite, you should stop or slow the bleeding with a clean cloth, wash the wound with warm water and mild soap, and apply antibiotic cream and bandages. A doctor can help with more severe cases that may require stitches and in minor cases, they can help you understand the warning signs of infection.
- Ask for the owner’s information. You should ask for the dog owner’s name, address, phone number, and insurance information. They should also provide you with the dog’s name and information.
- Get witness information. If anyone witnessed the attack, you should also get their contact information. In cases where the dog doesn’t have an owner, witnesses may also be able to provide helpful information that can identify the dog.
- Report the incident (call 311). Unless the dog continues to pose a threat, it is not necessary for you to call 911. After a dog bite, you should call 311 to report the bite to the Health Department as they can advise you on whether you need a rabies shot.
- Contact our attorney. With over 25 years of legal experience, our attorney is equipped to help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you need and deserve. Our firm is known for providing clients with high-quality, comprehensive legal services, and we have an in-depth understanding of dog bite laws. Once you retain our services, we can offer you personalized recommendations and counsel, and we can support you throughout the entire legal institution.
How to Avoid Being Bitten by a Dog
Not all dog bite incidents can be avoided. However, if you plan to approach a dog or be in an area where dogs are often around, you should understand how to prevent dog bites. Here are a few ways you can say safe when around or approaching a dog.
- Move slowly or let the dog come to you.
- Let them smell you before petting them.
- Get the owner’s permission to pet their dog.
- Be as gentle as possible when you first approach and touch them.
- Avoid provoking the animal (i.e. hitting, poking, teasing, or harassing them).
- Avoid playing with or approaching the dog when eating, sleeping, or caring for their puppies.
- Avoid intentionally scaring the dog.
- Avoid approaching or attempting to pet dogs without an owner.
Schedule a consultation with the team at the Law Offices of Charles R. Gueli by calling (516) 628-6402 or completing our online contact form.