For many, dogs truly are man’s best friend. That’s why being bitten by an aggressive dog can be a scary and often traumatic event. In most instances, dog bite victims are entitled to compensation, though they may not know how to proceed to fight for the funds they deserve. If this reflects your circumstances, you’ll want to keep reading to learn what you should know about these matters and how an experienced Ouachita Parish, Louisiana personal injury lawyer can help you navigate these complicated times.
What Should Dog Bite Victims Do After Sustaining an Injury?
After you are injured by a dog, understanding the steps to take is critical. Generally, the first thing you should do is immediately clean the wound. Unfortunately, if left untreated, the bite can become infected. As such, you should thoroughly clean the area and bandage it well.
In addition, you should contact your primary care provider for further treatment. If the wound requires immediate medical attention, you should go to your local emergency room for treatment. Depending on the date of your last tetanus shot, you may be required to receive the immunization. Additionally, if you have reason to believe that the animal was rabid, such as being unable to locate or talk to the owner to find out if the dog received the required vaccinations, you should go to the emergency room immediately. They can help prevent the onset of symptoms through medical care.
Can An Injured Party Hold the Owner Liable?
Unfortunately, being bitten by a dog can have many impacts on the victim. Not only can the cost of medical treatment be expensive, but the victim may need to take time off work to heal from the injuries they’ve sustained, which can cause them to lose wages. Additionally, the bitten party may suffer emotional damages as a result, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a loss of enjoyment of life. Similarly, if the bite results in a scar, they may suffer emotionally as a result.
Recovering compensation after a dog bite can be complex, as certain elements must be present in Louisiana to hold the owner liable. Generally, if you can prove that the owner knew the animal was dangerous or had a history of aggression, you can hold them liable. In addition, you’ll need to prove that the owner did not take reasonable actions to prevent the attack, such as leashing the dog or keeping them in a fenced-in yard.
If you have reason to believe the owner knew that the dog that attacked you was dangerous but did not take steps to mitigate damages, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson, our dedicated legal team will examine the circumstances of your case to determine the best course of action. Additionally, we can help fight for the compensation you deserve for the damages you’ve suffered. Contact us today to learn more about these matters.
