Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

Florida operates under strict liability laws when a dog bites someone and causes injury. This means that dog owners must pay damages to accident victims even if they did not know the dog had a violent or aggressive history. However, the steps you take after a dog bite or attack are essential to protecting your claim and recovering the full compensation you need for your injuries. If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog, the most important steps to take are below.

Seek Medical Attention

Like with any accident, taking care of your health after a dog bite is of the utmost importance. Even if you do not think the bite was serious, it is still imperative that you see a doctor as soon as possible. The mouths of dogs are filled with bacteria, and when a dog’s teeth pierces the skin, those germs can make their way into the wound. Additionally, a dog may have rabies or other diseases they can transmit to humans, and a doctor will give you a shot to ensure you do not become sick.

Obtain Information About the Dog and the Owner

If you do not know the dog, it is important to obtain as much information about the dog and its owner. Look at the dog tag to get the owner’s name and if they are not wearing one and the owner is not around, follow the dog home. Also collect the name of anyone that was in control of the dog at the time of the attack, such as a dog walker. Write down the address of the dog’s home, and any insurance information the owner will provide.

Report the Bite

Port St. Lucie has very specific rules for dogs that bite, including a mandatory quarantine period of ten days. You should report the bite to Port St. Lucie Animal Control so they can deal with the dog and ensure the dog will not bite anyone else in the future.

Collect Medical Records

When filing a dog bite claim, you will have to prove the extent of your injuries and the cost of treatment. Medical bills and other medical documents are essential when you are proving these aspects of your claim so you should ask any doctor that treated you for copies of these records.

Take Pictures

Pictures also serve as valuable evidence, so you should try and take a picture of the dog, if you can. If you cannot, ask someone to take a picture for you. Also take pictures of your injuries, as these can also prove the extent of your injury.

Call a Florida Dog Bite Lawyer

While the law on dog bites is very clear, filing a claim can become quite complex. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, our Port St. Lucie dog bite lawyers at Eighmie Law Firm, P.A., can assist with your case. Call us today at (772) 905-8692 or fill out our online form so we can review your case.

Resource:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0767/Sections/0767.04.html

https://www.eighmielawfirm.com/how-long-do-you-have-to-file-a-car-accident-claim/