Dog bites can happen suddenly and have serious consequences, from painful injuries to potential infections. Knowing what to do immediately following a dog bite is crucial for your health and safeguarding your legal rights. Keep reading to learn crucial steps for recovering from a dog attack. Call a Nashville dog bite attorney at (615) 220-4180 if you or a loved one were bitten.
This guide will help you take the right steps after an unfortunate encounter with a dog and inform you about the compensation you might be entitled to for your injuries.
Immediate steps after dog bite
- Ensure your safety: Move to a safe location away from the dog to prevent further attacks.
- Assess the injury: Check the severity of the wound. Minor scratches might require simple first aid, while deep bites may need professional medical attention immediately.
- Clean the wound: Rinse it with warm water, apply gentle soap to clean the area, and cover it with a sterile bandage. This initial cleaning helps reduce the risk of infection.
- Seek medical attention: For deep wounds, punctures, or if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown, seek professional medical treatment immediately. Medical documentation will also be vital if you pursue a legal claim.
Report the incident: Report the dog bite to local animal control or the police, especially if the dog was unprovoked. This report can be crucial for documenting the incident for legal and safety reasons.
Legal actions and understanding your rights
6. Gather information: If possible, collect contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses. Obtain any available information about the dog’s vaccination history.
7. Document everything: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the incident, and the dog if it is safe to do so. Keep records of all medical treatments and expenses related to the bite.
8. Consult with an attorney: Contact a personal injury lawyer specializing in dog bite cases. Weir & Kestner Injury Lawyers can guide you on navigating the legal proceedings and ensuring your rights are protected under Tennessee law.
Understanding Tennessee dog bite laws
Under Tennessee’s dog bite law (Tenn. Code Ann. § 44-8-413), the dog’s owner can be held liable if their dog causes personal injury to a person. Tennessee follows a “strict liability” rule in cases where the dog bite occurs in a public place or when the victim is lawfully in a private place. This means the dog owner may be held responsible regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior.
Possible compensation
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. An experienced attorney can help you understand the types of compensation available and how to maximize your claim.
Preventing future incidents
Understanding how to interact safely with dogs and recognizing the signs of aggression can help prevent bites. Sharing this knowledge can also reduce the incidence of dog bites in your community.
Bitten by a dog? We can help.
If you have been bitten by a dog, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can significantly affect your physical recovery and the outcome of any legal action you may choose to pursue. Weir & Kestner Injury Lawyers are here to help you navigate the aftermath of a dog bite, advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you on your road to recovery.