What To Do If A Dog Bites You
There are nearly 5 million animal attacks yearly in America – ranging from minor bites and scratches to vicious attacks that could result in death. In an age of animal cops, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), pet psychics, and over-the-top dog shows, one would think that animal awareness would be at an all-time high. Not so. Would you believe that in this country you can find huge compounds filled with dogs bred specifically for fighting? Would you also believe that animal neglect is at an all-time high, and there are millions of homeless animals roaming the streets of America? This is not only a scary situation for the animals, but there are numerous safety concerns for the individuals who may find themselves in the path of an abused or angry animal that attacks.
To avoid an animal attack, it’s important to be able to identify the types of dogs that are most likely to attack or kill such as Pit Bulls and Rottweilers, and to look out for tell-tale signs such as heavy chains around the animals neck, foaming at the mouth, an unkempt appearance, aggressive behavior, and growling.
If you have done everything you can to avoid being bitten by an animal, and you become the victim of an animal bite or attack, there are several things that you must do. First do everything you can not to panic. Next, immediately clean the wound with warm soap and water, then seek medical attention as soon as you can. Last, do not waste time reporting the bite to your local animal care and control agency – this is a must. The animal care and control agency will record all of the necessary information and if the dog is found to be dangerous (whether it has an owner or not) or the dog is a stray, he may be picked up and euthanized.
In some cases, you will have to hire a personal injury attorney if you sustain significant injuries that result in medical costs, loss of wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney or lawyer will be well-versed in your state and local dog-bite laws, and they will be able to argue your case, on your behalf, to recover the maximum amount of damages you are entitled to under your states law. To find an experienced personal injury attorney or lawyer visit the American Bar Association website.
Info™ State Dog And Animal Bite Information: