Dog bites can be scary and painful, and in the heat of the moment, it is easy to make mistakes that could massively affect your health, legal rights, and financial compensation. Knowing what to do (and what not to do) is essential, whether the bite is minor or severe. If you live in Orange County, you can sue the owner of the dog under California’s strict liability laws. An Orange County dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities and secure the compensation you deserve. However, before you get to that point, here are five common mistakes people make after a dog bite incident and how to avoid them.
1. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating the seriousness of a dog bite. Even if the wound seems small, dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, and even rabies. Dogs’ mouths contain bacteria that can cause severe infections if left untreated. Additionally, seeking medical attention immediately after the bite creates an official record of the injury, which can be helpful when filing a claim.
When bitten by a dog: Wash the wound with soap and water immediately, apply an antiseptic, and seek medical care as soon as possible. If the bite is deep or bleeding heavily, go to the emergency room.
2. Failing To Gather Important Information
In the chaos after a dog bite, many people forget to collect crucial details about the dog and its owner, making it extremely difficult to file a claim later.
Therefore, get the dog owner’s name, contact information, and proof of the dog’s vaccination records if possible. If it is safe to do so, take photos of the bite wound, the scene of the attack, and the dog. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information, as their statements may help support your case.
3. Not Reporting The Incident
Many victims assume that if the injury is not severe, there’s no need to report the bite. However, reporting the bite to local authorities is essential for multiple reasons. For example, it helps track dangerous dogs, ensures proper quarantine procedures are followed if rabies is a concern, and provides an official record of the incident.
Therefore, following a dog bite, contact Orange County Animal Control or your local law enforcement agency to report the bite. This step is critical if the dog has a history of aggression or the owner refuses to cooperate.
4. Talking To The Dog Owner’s Insurance Company Without Legal Guidance
After a dog bite, the owner’s insurance company may contact you for a statement or offer a quick settlement. While this might seem like a good thing, insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts and may try to downplay your injuries and pressure you into accepting less compensation than you deserve.
Before speaking with insurance representatives, consult a dog bite lawyer in Orange County to negotiate and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
5. Delaying Legal Action
In California, dog bite victims have up to two years to file a personal injury claim. However, waiting too long can weaken your case, as evidence may be lost, witnesses’ memories may fade, and insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not severe enough to warrant compensation.
If you are unsure about your legal rights or whether you have a case, schedule a free consultation with a qualified Orange County dog bite lawyer to confirm the details. They can assess your situation, explain your options, and help you take the necessary steps to secure the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
A dog bite incident can be overwhelming, but avoiding these common mistakes can significantly affect your recovery and legal outcome. Therefore, prioritize your health, document everything, report the incident, and seek legal guidance to protect you. By taking the proper steps, you can focus on healing while holding the responsible party accountable for their pet’s actions.
We are not lawyers and this is in no way intended to be used as legal advice . We cannot be held responsible for your results. Always do your own research and seek professional legal help.
Daniel is a Cinnamon Hollow author passionate about house and home, renovations, homesteading and DIY.