5 Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite

Because animal attacks are often traumatic and unexpected, they may leave victims unsure of what steps to take next. Yet acting quickly is crucial to protect your health and legal rights. Dog bites can have lasting physical and emotional effects. Take steps to prioritize your health, gather evidence, and pursue legal action.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Georgia, contact a skilled Atlanta dog bite lawyer. Legal professionals are available to help you navigate the process as well as explain what you should, and shouldn’t, do in the moments, days, and weeks following an injury.

Step 1 – Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even minor-looking bites can result in serious infections or diseases. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may want to contact emergency services. For more minor injuries, consider the following.

• Clean the wound immediately. Use soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply pressure. If there is bleeding, use a clean cloth to stop it.
• Visit a doctor. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the wound, administer a tetanus shot if needed, and prescribe antibiotics.

Step 2 – Identify the Dog and Its Owner

If possible, gather information about the dog and its owner. This is critical for determining if the dog is up to date on vaccinations and for pursuing a legal claim. For instance, you can ask for the dog owner’s contact information, including their name, phone number, and address. During this conversation, inquire about the dog’s vaccination history, too. Confirm that the dog has a current rabies vaccine. If the owner is unavailable, take note of the dog’s appearance, behavior, and location.

Step 3 – Document Your Injuries and the Incident

Strong evidence is essential for building an injury case. Because of this, you will want to photograph the harm as soon as possible. Take clear pictures of the bite and surrounding areas. Also, write down details of the event, from the date and time to the circumstances of the incident. If anyone saw the attack, collect their contact information and ask for a statement.

Step 4 – Report the Incident

In Atlanta, dog bite incidents should be reported to the local animal control agency. So, file a report. Request a copy. This creates an official record of the attack, which may be important for legal and public safety reasons.

Step 5: Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney

Georgia bite laws aren’t always simple. An Atlanta dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights and seek compensation for damages. As soon as you share your story with a legal professional, they’ll begin the process of evaluating the circumstances of the bite and determine if negligence was involved. Additionally, your attorney can handle communications with insurers to secure a fair settlement.

Could you access financial relief? Protect your rights following a bite injury, have a conversation with the attorneys at Zagoria Law. Timely action is part of a strong claim. When you’re ready to learn more about how to seek justice, contact us.