Dog Bites

Dog bites can be some of the most traumatic personal injury cases. Often, victims of dog attacks will benefit from psychological treatment to deal with the damage caused by the attack. If you have been a dog bite victim, you need to know your rights and the legal options available to obtain the compensation you deserve. Following a dog bite, you should:

Seek Medical Attention Right Away:
Please visit a doctor or clinic to receive appropriate treatment and document your injuries. After a dog bite, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Even if the wound appears minor, dog bites can result in severe infections.

Additionally, if you believe you are experiencing any of the following after a dog attack, please consider seeking the services of a mental health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment:

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms may include intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance of reminders of the event.
2. Anxiety disorders: This may include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, or specific phobias related to dogs or violent encounters.
3. Depression: This may involve feelings of guilt, shame, sadness, and hopelessness.
4. Substance Abuse: Some individuals may turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with the distressing emotions and memories associated with the dog attack.
5. Social Isolation: Victims of dog attacks may withdraw from social interactions due to feelings of fear, shame, and guilt.
6. Sleep Disturbances: Experiencing a traumatic event can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling asleep, nightmares, and frequent awakenings.

Report The Incident:
Inform local authorities, such as the police or animal control department, about the incident. Provide accurate details about the location, time, and circumstances in which the bite occurred. This will help establish an official record of the incident and ensure the safety of others.

Gather Evidence:
Take photographs of the wounds, the dog, and the incident scene. If possible, obtain the dog owner’s contact information and any witnesses present. This evidence will support your claim and demonstrate the severity of the injuries suffered. DO NOT dispose of the articles of clothing or shoes you were wearing when the attack happened.

Seek Compensation For Your Damages:
In California, homeowners’ or renters’ insurance usually covers dog bite liability when the insured person is sued by the victim. Whether insurance covers the incident will depend on the specific terms and conditions of the insurance policy. If you suffer a dog bite, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical expenses, emotional distress, loss of income, and other related damages.
However, it is important to note that not all insurance policies cover dog bites, and some policies may have specific exclusions or limitations for certain dog breeds or aggressive dogs such as Pit Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, etc. One of our expert lawyers will help you determine insurance coverage, and the value of your claim and seek the maximum possible compensation.

Consult A Personal Injury Lawyer:
It is essential to have the legal support of a personal injury lawyer. One of our experienced lawyers will guide you through the legal process to help protect your rights and assist you in navigating the mental health treatment process needed to accurately diagnose your injuries. We will evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit on your behalf.

We Can Help You:
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward recovery. We understand that dealing with a dog attack and the aftermath can be mentally and physically debilitating, but remember, you are not alone. We can provide you with legal and medical resources to assess potential mental implications like those mentioned above. Don’t hesitate to call us. We will help you build a strong case and fight for just compensation.