Thousands of people are bit by dogs every year and in most cases those bites are minor. However, there are many dog bite injuries that are anything but minor. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite then this article is for you. Keep reading to learn the basics about your legal options and then contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 for a free legal consultation.
You may be entitled to a number of dog bite damages
Depending on the specifics of your case, there are a number of damages you may be entitled to. They could include all medical costs associated with the bite, lost wages (past and future), pain and suffering, future medical costs, physical therapy, and, if the dog bite resulted in death, wrongful death. To find out what damages you may be entitled to, contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 right away.
Some cases may warrant a workers’ compensation claim instead of a personal injury case
In some instances, a person who’s injured by a dog bite may actually have a workers’ compensation claim instead of a personal injury claim. For example, a delivery person, mail carrier, or any other professional that requires workers to go on private property to do their job. In this case, these people have what’s known as implied consent of the owner to go onto their property. That said, if their workers’ compensation doesn’t fully cover the injury the it may be time to file a personal injury case.
The most common dog bite injuries
In some cases, dog bites can cause permanent disfigurement, can require plastic surgery, and many necessitate long-term medical needs and rehab. There can also be emotional injuries, including and pain and suffering. All of these factors must be taken into consideration when filing a case for a dog bite injury.
Note that more than 85% of dog attacks result in bodily harm, and 42% of those people who are hospitalized after a dog bite are treated for tissue infection or skin lacerations. More than 20% have wounds on their legs and arms, 5% end up with wounds on the head, torso, or neck, and the rest suffered from broken bones or blood poisoning.
What to do if you’re bitten by a dog
If you are bitten by a dog, the first thing to do is seek immediate medical attention. Even if you don’t think that your injuries are serious, remember that they could become infected or they could be more serious than they appear. Having an ER doctor or your personal doctor look at them not only assures the best medical care but also helps any future personal injury lawsuit.
Next, call animal control. They must determine if the dog that bit you has rabies. While the owner should do this, it’s up to you to make sure it’s done. Take pictures of the injuries you suffered. Get information from the owner of the dog that bit you. Then contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn at (310) 209-1600 to talk to a dog bite attorney.
