Dogs are beloved companions by millions of people and families, yet there is this concern that dog attacks and bites occur quite frequently throughout the U.S.
Many people have experienced severe and fatal injuries from dog attacks. What’s particularly distressing with these incidents is they are often unprovoked aggression, catching victims off guard. Dog attacks can be due to poor training, irresponsible ownership, or unforeseen triggers that may cause even a well-behaved dog to react aggressively.
If you have been a victim of a dog bite or dog attack, the best thing you can do is find a dog bite defense attorney near you who can listen to your case, understand your situations and tailor their services to your locality.
With the injuries and legalities dog bite or dog attacks bring, you have to know what steps to take to protect and keep yourself safe. So, what exactly should you do when your neighbor’s dog attacks?
Learn the necessary actions to take to work through this situation.
Table of Contents
Seek Medical Attention
If you have been injured in a neighbor’s dog attack, you have to seek medical care immediately and have your wounds properly cleaned, treated and monitored. Even if your injuries seem minor, have a medical professional assess and treat them. Dogs have strong jaws and sharp teeth, which means that even a small bite can cause damage.
According to Tulsa dog bite attorney Sheldon Smith, dog bites can easily become infected and lead to further complications. When you arrive at the medical facility, be sure to provide the healthcare provider with a detailed account of the incident.
Describe how the attack occurred, the location of the bite or injury, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. This helps the medical professional assess the right course of action. They may recommend cleaning the wound, administering antibiotics, or even providing a tetanus shot, depending on the severity of the injury.
Document the Incident
Documenting the incident will help you in various ways, such as when filing insurance claims or reporting the incident to the authorities. Write down a detailed account of what happened. Include information such as the date, time, and location of the attack, as well as a description of the dog and any witnesses present.
Take photos of your injuries, as well as any damage caused by the dog. Keep a record of any medical treatment you receive like doctors’ visits, medications prescribed, and any ongoing physical therapy. If possible, get the contact information from any witnesses and ask them to provide a statement about what they saw.
Be sure to keep copies of any correspondence related to the incident, such as emails or letters exchanged with the dog owner or their insurance company.
Report the Attack to Authorities
Contact your local authorities immediately to report the dog attack. When reporting the attack, provide as much detail as possible, including the date, time, and location of the incident. Describe the dog involved, including its breed, size, and any distinguishing features. Be sure to provide information about the owner, if known, including their name, address, and contact details.
Be prepared to answer any questions the authorities may have, such as the severity of the injuries sustained and any previous incidents involving the dog. By reporting the attack, you aren’t only protecting yourself but also helping to prevent future incidents and that appropriate actions are taken against the owner.
Consult With a Legal Professional
Consulting with a legal professional will help you determine the best course of action based on your specific circumstances. They can assess the strength of your case and advise you on the legal recourse available to you. Whether it’s filing a lawsuit for personal injury, seeking compensation for medical expenses, or pursuing a claim for emotional distress, a legal professional can guide you through every step of the process.
They can assist you in gathering evidence to support your claim. They can help you collect medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation needed to build a strong case. They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf for you to receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Conclusion
When a neighbor’s dog attacks, you have to prioritize your safety and seek immediate medical attention if needed. Documenting the incident and reporting it to the authorities can ensure the responsible party is held accountable.
Consulting with a legal professional can offer guidance on handling any potential legal actions that may arise. Taking these steps we gave you can help protect both yourself and others from future harm.
