Personal Injury from Dog Bites
May 17, 2023 | Adriel B. Villarreal
Dogs are friendly creatures and have even been tabbed as “man’s best friend.” Unfortunately, there are certain instances and situations where that may not be the case. Being attacked by a dog or any animal is a traumatic experience for victims and can leave them seriously injured. Dog bites are persistent incidents across the United States, and it is important that victims know their rights when this situation arises. Continue reading our blog as we navigate you through the legal process of a personal injury from dog bites.
Dog Bite Statistics
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States. About one in five people who are bitten require medical attention, and more than 800,000 receive medical attention for dog bites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that children are more likely than adults to be bitten by dogs.
What to Do if You’re Bitten by a Dog
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Dog bites can be serious, and it’s important that you get the wound treated as soon as possible to avoid possible health issues. You should also report the dog bite to your local animal control agency. Animal control will investigate the incident and determine if the dog is up to date on its vaccinations and whether the owner is in compliance with local laws.
Gather Information from the Incident
If you are considering pursuing legal action against the dog owner, it’s important to document as much information as possible about the incident. Take photos of the wound, write down the dog owner’s contact information, and gather the contact information of any witnesses who saw the incident. Contact a personal injury attorney to help you understand your legal rights and the steps you need to take to pursue compensation for damages.
Contact Barna, Guzy & Steffen
At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we are proud of our reputation as a respected Minnesota law firm. If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury from dog bites or other animal attacks, our trusted attorneys can help. We’ll work closely with you and your family to ensure you understand every aspect of the case and settle your claim as quickly as possible. Contact us today!