Dog bites can be both physically and emotionally traumatic. While dogs are often friendly companions, even familiar animals can act unpredictably. A sudden bite from a neighbor’s dog can leave you dealing with pain, medical expenses, and uncertainty about your next steps.
If this happens to you, taking immediate action is important to protect your health, document the incident, and understand your legal rights. Here’s what you should know.
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even minor-looking dog bites can lead to serious infections or complications if not treated promptly. Wash the wound with soap and water, apply a clean bandage, and seek medical care immediately. Depending on the circumstances of the bite, your healthcare provider may recommend a tetanus shot, antibiotics, or a rabies evaluation.
Prompt medical treatment safeguards your health and creates an official medical record—critical if you decide to pursue a legal claim later.
Step 2: Document the Incident
After ensuring your safety and getting medical care, document everything you can remember about the incident. Include:
- Date, time, and location of the bite.
- Circumstances leading up to the bite—was the dog roaming free, provoked, or unrestrained?
- Photos of the injury, the dog (if possible), and the location where the bite occurred.
- Names and contact information of any witnesses.
The more details you gather, the stronger your case will be if you need to seek compensation.
Step 3: Report the Bite to Local Authorities
Most cities and counties require that dog bites be reported to animal control or the local health department. Filing a report creates an official record of the attack, which can help authorities determine if the dog poses a risk to others and whether it has a history of aggression.
Reporting the bite also supports your legal claim, showing that you acted responsibly and followed the law.
Step 4: Understand Texas Dog Bite Laws
In Texas, dog bite liability often depends on whether the dog has a known history of aggression or if the owner acted negligently in controlling the dog. Under the “one bite rule,” a dog’s owner may be held responsible if:
- The dog had bitten someone before or displayed aggressive tendencies.
- The owner failed to properly restrain or control the dog, leading to your injury.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you determine whether your situation meets the legal requirements for a claim and guide you through the process.
Step 5: Avoid Direct Confrontation
It may be tempting to confront your neighbor immediately after a dog bite, but emotions can run high. Instead, focus on your medical care, gathering documentation, and letting your attorney handle communication. This can help prevent misunderstandings or damaging statements that could affect your case.
Step 6: Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bite claims can involve medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An attorney experienced in dog bite cases can:
- Investigate the incident thoroughly.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Work to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress.
KRW Lawyers understands the impact a dog bite can have on your life. We fight to protect your rights and help you hold negligent dog owners accountable.
Get Results For Your Dog Bite Injury Case
If a neighbor’s dog has bitten you, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. KRW Lawyers offers free consultations and will review your case to help you understand your legal options.
Contact KRW Lawyers today at (855) 770-4045 to get the legal support you deserve.
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