What To Do if You Get Bit by Your Neighbor’s Dog

Dog bites are more common than you might think and can happen when you least expect it. When a neighbor’s dog bites, it’s not only physically painful but can also lead to emotional and financial hardships. 

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 4.5 million people in the United States suffer from dog bites annually. Of these, 800,000 require medical attention for their injuries, and roughly half are children. Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to severe wounds; in some unfortunate cases, they can even be fatal. 

Understanding what to do after a dog bite is essential for your well-being and legal protection. Here, we will walk you through the steps to take immediately after a dog bite, the importance of verifying the dog’s vaccination status, when to consult an attorney, and how to navigate the complex legal processes involved in seeking compensation. 

What To Do After a Dog Bite

1. Clean the Wound

After a dog bite, wash the wound gently with soap and warm water for three to five minutes to reduce the risk of infection, and pat the area dry with a clean cloth. Apply an over-the-counter antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide or iodine to the wound to help prevent disease. If the injury is bleeding heavily, use a clean cloth or sterile bandage to apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. 

2. See Medical Attention

Regardless of the bite’s severity, seeking medical attention is crucial. Some dog bites may appear minor on the surface but can ultimately lead to severe infections or complications if left untreated. A healthcare professional can evaluate the wound, assess the disease risk, and recommend appropriate treatment, like antibiotics or a tetanus shot. 

Verify Vaccination Status

Knowing the dog’s vaccination status will allow you and your doctor to assess the risk of rabies transmission. If the dog is not current on rabies vaccinations or its status is unknown, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may be necessary to prevent rabies infection. You can protect your health and receive appropriate medical treatment by promptly verifying the dog's vaccination status.

3. Document the Incident

Adequate documentation is essential after a dog bite; the sooner you begin, the better. Take clear, close-up photos of the bite wound from different angles immediately after the incident and during the healing stages. Record a detailed account of the incident, including the date, time, location, and circumstances leading to the bite.

In addition, keep copies of medical records, bills, and prescriptions related to the injury and treatment, as these records can be crucial for legal or insurance purposes. 

4. Report the Bite

Promptly report the incident to local animal control or the police if needed. Provide comprehensive information about the incident, including the bite's date, time, and location. Describe the circumstances leading to the bite and any interactions with the dog owner. Include as much detail as possible about the dog, such as its breed, size, color, and any distinctive markings, as well as the owner’s name, address, and contact information. 

This comprehensive report helps authorities investigate the incident, assess any potential risks, and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the commitment.

5. Consult an Attorney

You should consult an attorney if you believe you have grounds for a legal claim. This includes situations where the dog owner is uncooperative, their negligence led to the bite, or if there are substantial medical expenses, pain and suffering, or lost wages. An attorney can assess the case, provide legal guidance, and help pursue compensation for damages. 

Your Legal Options After a Dog Bite

If a neighbor’s dog has bitten you, you have many legal options to receive compensation for your medical expenses, pain, and suffering. 

Filing a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim

Typically, homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability. Victims can file a claim against the dog owner’s insurance to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, insurance companies may dispute or limit payouts.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Victims can file a personal injury claim against the dog owner if negligence can be established. This negligence might involve the owner’s failure to control or restrain the dog properly, knowing the dog’s propensity for aggression, or violating local leash laws.

Strict Liability Laws

Many states have strict liability laws regarding dog bites, meaning owners can be held responsible for their dog’s actions regardless of negligence. In such cases, victims may not need to prove the owner’s negligence, making it easier to seek compensation.

Local and State Laws

Dog bite laws can vary significantly by location. Some areas may have breed-specific legislation, leash laws, or ordinances related to dangerous dogs. Understanding local and state laws is crucial when pursuing a claim.

Navigating the Legal Process

Hiring a dog bite attorney with expertise in personal injury law can ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation after a traumatic incident. Here are some benefits of seeking legal representation:

• Legal Expertise: A skilled attorney understands the intricacies of personal injury and dog bite laws. They can assess the strength of your case, identify liable parties, and build a compelling argument on your behalf. 

• Navigating Complexity: Personal injury cases, especially dog bite claims, can involve complex legal procedures and negotiations with insurance companies. An experienced attorney can guide you through this maze, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken and deadlines are met. 

• Maximizing Compensation: Attorneys know how to calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses. They’ll work to secure the maximum compensation possible for your situation. 

How To Choose the Best Dog Bite Lawyer for Your Case

You can find the best dog bite lawyer for your case through Expertise.com’s Personal Injury Lawyer Directory and Concierge Service. Our directory offers a comprehensive list of lawyers in each metro area, making gathering information on potential attorneys easier. We narrow down the best providers by analyzing their qualifications, licenses, and community reputation. This in-depth research ensures that you can access top-notch legal professionals with the necessary expertise to handle dog bite cases effectively.

For those seeking personalized guidance, Expertise.com’s free Concierge Service is invaluable. You can be connected to a local legal professional specializing in dog bite cases by giving us a call. This direct connection allows for hands-on guidance, ensuring you make an informed decision about your legal representation.