Dog bites are one of the most traumatic ordeals you can experience. The resulting trauma can stay with you for a long time. It can even impact you financially through loss of earnings. If a dog has injured you, then you need to make sure that you consider your own health and Social Security Disability in Lawrence, PA, can help will law advice before you look at what compensation you might be entitled to.
Below are some of the first steps you should take.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if the injuries don't seem severe, you must get to a medical expert as soon as possible. Dog bites can put you at risk of infection as dogs can carry a variety of bacteria and viruses. This is why a tetanus shot might be necessary. Seeking medical advice will help you to know if this is the case.
Get Contact Details of the Dog Owner and Any Witnesses
If you later wish to take action, you need to get the necessary contact information of the dog owner once you have received medical attention. Many attacks happen in the homes of friends or relatives, so this might not be as necessary, but if this isn't the case, you want to ensure you have everything you need to make an example later. Additionally, witness information will add a lot of weight to your claim.
Ask for Insurance Information
In some circumstances, it will be challenging to speak to the dog's owner. If you can, try and get their insurance information, if they have it, as it will make building a claim smoother. This doesn't have to be done at the time, but if you can obtain their contact details to be saved for later.
Take Photographs of Your Injuries
Photographs will show how long it takes for your body to heal. This is necessary for the time shortly after the attack and throughout your recovery. Keep your clothes and take pictures of them as they might also explain the extent of the attack. If it is safe, take photos of the dog as well.
Contact the Police
Filing a report of the dog attack will help you and any dog bite lawyer in Boston to build a case. Ask for the report number from the authorities and keep a record of it. This is especially important if the dog owner is acting hostilely.
Contact a Lawyer
Once you have followed the other steps, we recommend contacting a dog bite lawyer without delay. Your best chance of getting the compensation you deserve is by using a trusted and experienced dog bite lawyer in your area. Let your lawyer handle the discussions, as these can be stressful. Your ordeal will have already been traumatic, so it is best to leave it to those who deal with dog bite claims regularly.
