What To Do if You Get Bit by a Dog at Work

As the demand for delivery drivers and service personnel continues to rise, dog bites in the workplace have become a more prevalent concern. The rise of online shopping and doorstep deliveries has significantly increased encounters between employees and household pets. In the United States, over 4.5 million people suffer dog bite injuries each year, with a growing number of these incidents occurring while individuals are on the clock.

Postal employees or other governmental employees injured on the job are covered by special rules (Federal Workers' Compensation claims). These federal claims differ from typical workers' compensation claims.

From immediate first steps to understanding your rights and potential legal avenues, we’ll guide you through the complexities of handling a dog bite incident at work. Your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance, and knowing how to navigate these situations can make all the difference.

What To Do After a Dog Bite

1. Assess the Situation

Immediately after the bite, assess the severity of the injury. If it’s a minor scrape or scratch, you may be able to handle it yourself. However, seek immediate medical attention if the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or appears infected.

2. Wash the Wound

Clean the wound with soap and warm water for at least five minutes if possible. This helps reduce the risk of infection, which is relatively common in dog bite injuries. Pat the area dry with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. 

After cleaning:

• Apply an over-the-counter antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to the wound.

• Use a sterile bandage or dressing to cover the injury.

• Change the dressing regularly, at least once daily, to prevent infection. 

3. Document the Incident

Adequate documentation is crucial because it creates an official record for workers’ compensation claims, insurance purposes, or potential legal actions. Detailed documentation helps establish the integrity of the incident, clarifies liability, and aids in determining the appropriate compensation or responsibility. 

This should include the date, time, and location of the incident, names and contact information of witnesses, a description of the dog and its owner, and any photographs of injuries and the scene. 

4. Seek Medical Attention

Regardless of the severity of the bite, it’s generally recommended to consult a healthcare professional, primarily if it occurs at work. Some dog bites can lead to severe infections or complications, even if they initially don’t look that serious. Your healthcare provider will assess the wound and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or a tetanus shot. 

5. Report the Incident

Report the incident to your supervisor or HR department as soon as possible. Timely reporting allows for immediate assessment of workplace safety and potential hazards. It also initiates necessary procedures, such as workers’ compensation claims, which can provide medical and financial assistance. 

Failing to report may result in delayed medical treatment, increased personal expenses, and legal complications. 

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Regarding dog bite injuries at work, workers’ compensation may apply if the dog bite occurs while you perform work-related tasks or are on your employer’s premises as part of your job. This includes delivery drivers being bitten while delivering packages or maintenance workers on company property. 

I practice in Kentucky. Here, there is strict liability for dog bite claims. It's also possible that someone other than an owner of the dog could be found liable if they act as the statutory owner or possessor of the dog. There can be quite a few nuances regarding dog bite cases, so I strongly recommend that a person who has been bitten by a dog contacts an attorney.

Pros and Cons of Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

While there are many benefits to filing a workers’ compensation claim, there are also some limitations, as detailed in the table below.

How To File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

To file a workers’ comp claim for a dog bite injury:

1. Notify Your Employer: Report the incident to your employer or supervisor immediately, detailing how and where the injury occurred.

2. Seek Medical Attention: Get prompt medical treatment and inform your healthcare provider that the injury is work-related.

3. Complete a Claim Form: Your employer should provide you with a workers’ comp claim form. Fill it out accurately and submit it within the specified timeframe. 

4. Follow Medical Advice: Follow your doctor’s instructions and attend any necessary medical evaluations or rehabilitation appointments.

5. Await a Decision: The workers’ comp insurance carrier will review your claim and determine its validity. They will notify you of their decision.

Claims Against Liable Third Parties

Pursuing legal action through third-party liability claims can be a crucial avenue for dog bite victims seeking compensation beyond workers’ compensation or personal insurance. 

To pursue a third-party liability claim, an injured party typically needs to establish that someone other than their employer is responsible for their injury. For instance, if a dog bite occurs at work, it might involve the dog owner or property owner. Here is how the process works:

Dog Owner Liability

If a dog owner’s negligence led to the bite, the victim may file a claim against the dog owner. Compensation may cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

Property Owner Liability

In cases where the dog bite occurs on someone else’s property, like a rented apartment or a friend’s house, the property owner might be liable if they were aware of the dog’s dangerous behavior or failed to address safety concerns.

Homeowners or Renters Insurance

Compensation for third-party liability claims often comes from the dog owner’s homeowner's or renter's insurance. These policies typically cover dog bite injuries, providing a source of funds to compensate the victim.

Navigating the Legal Process

Hiring a skilled dog bite attorney with expertise in personal injury law is pivotal for anyone facing the aftermath of a dog bite incident. These legal professionals offer invaluable support and advocacy, protecting the victim’s rights and interests.

First and foremost, an experienced attorney comprehends the intricacies of dog bite laws, both at the state and local levels, which can vary significantly. They can assess the incident's circumstances, determine liability, and craft a solid legal strategy tailored to each victim’s unique case. 

Perhaps most importantly, a dog bite attorney advocates for the victim, ensuring their rights are upheld during negotiations, mediation, or litigation. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and construct a compelling case, significantly improving the chances of a favorable outcome.

How To Choose the Best Dog Bite Lawyer for Your Case

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Still not sure where to start? Contact our free concierge service. With one quick phone call, our team will match you with a qualified lawyer ready to discuss your specific needs and guide you through the legal process.