Being bitten by a dog is a traumatic experience that can lead to lasting anxiety and life long physical pain if the situation is not managed properly. Get tips on what to do after being bitten by a dog and how to file a dog bite legal case from a dog bite injury lawyer near you. 

What Happens After You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog?

Dealing with the reality of being bitten by a dog can leave you in a state of panic, but it is important to take the necessary actions of seeking medical treatment, attending follow-up care, and consulting with a personal injury lawyer who can help bite victims get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. 

Stop the Bleeding and Assess Your Injuries

The first and most important step to take after experiencing a dog bite is to assess the severity of your injuries. Determine if the bite is superficial, minor, severe or if you have sustained a deep bite that is bleeding profusely. Carefully apply gentle pressure to the dog bite wound to stop or reduce the bleeding. 

Clean the Wound and Get Emergency Medical Treatment

Once the bleeding has reduced or stopped through your own efforts or through the help of a licensed medical professional, the next step is to ensure the wound is clean. Clean the affected area by applying a solution of warm water and mild soap. Pat the wound dry and allow it to air dry. 

After you have assessed the bite and stopped the bleeding, the next step is to contact local emergency medical professionals to get medical evaluation and attention as soon as possible. Serious dog bites left untreated can develop into severe infections or even more serious medical conditions. 

Report the Incident to Local Authorities

Report the incident to local animal authorities and law enforcement officials to help them identify the dog that bit you if the dog is unknown. It is important to provide as much detail as possible about the offending animal.

Authorities will need to verify the dog’s vaccination status to ensure that the animal has no serious medical conditions like rabies and to provide documentation for follow-up and legal action in more serious cases. 

Complete Follow-Up Appointments

Now that you have gotten effective medical treatment for your dog bite wound and arranged for follow-up medical care with a licensed professional, the next important steps to take are to ensure that you keep all follow-up appointments and follow the aftercare instructions provided by the medical professionals treating your injury. 

Consider Legal Action 

Suffering from a severe dog bite can result in emotional distress, physical harm, and debilitating anxiety that can last for years. Consult with a dog bite injury lawyer to learn what your rights are and if you are entitled to compensation for your injury. 

Trust Louis B. Himmelstein & Associates for All Your Personal Injury Needs

Don’t navigate the dog bite legal process alone – contact Louis B. Himmelstein & Associates to work with a personal injury lawyer who will fight for you.