What do you do when a dog bite or attacks someone you know? Here are some things to should keep in mind:
1. Properly identify the dog and dog owner.
After a dog bites or attacks an individual, it is important for the victim (or anyone with the victim at the time) to properly identify the dog and where the dog lives. The victim must also identify the dog’s owner, and obtain the owner’s name, address and contact number.
2. Get medical attention.
A dog bite victim must seek medical attention as soon as possible, whether it requires calling an ambulance, visiting a health care facility or going to the emergency room. The risk of an infection from a dog bite is great, and a dog bite victim must seek treatment right away. Be sure the victim gets documentation of injuries and treatments.
3. Report dog bite to authorities.
Once the victim has sought medical treatment, report the dog bite to the local police department or local animal control agency to legally document dog bite. Reporting the incident also ensures that action will be taken to prevent another innocent victim from being bitten or attacked.
If a stray dog bites the victim and the victim is not able to identify the owner, he should report the incident to the local animal control agency and provide a description of the dog and the location where the attack took place. If bitten by a stray dog, the victim may need to get rabies shots.
4. Document the injuries.
If the victim is able to, take photos of all dog bite injuries, including all wounds, bruises, and even torn or shredded clothing. If possible, take photographs of the dog that bit the victim and the location where the attack took place.
5. Contact an attorney.
Dog bite cases may be too complex to handle without the aid of an attorney. It would be in the victim’s best interests to contact an experienced dog bite attorney who can guide him through the legal process from this point on.
Hiring An Attorney
If a dog bites you in New Jersey, immediately contact a dog bite attorney from The Grossman Law Firm. A dog bite attorney should be able to help you determine whether you are eligible to file a claim, and will help you obtain monetary compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering.