Dog bites happen more often than we like to think—each year, nearly 4.5 million dog bites are reported in the United States. Whether it’s a stray or a dog you’ve encountered before, the aftermath of a bite can leave you feeling overwhelmed, frightened, and unsure of your next move.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, the physical and emotional aftermath can feel like a lot to handle. But don’t worry—you’re not alone. This step-by-step guide will walk you through what to do immediately after a dog bite injury, so you can take control of the situation, ensure proper recovery, and safeguard your legal rights.

1. Take Immediate Action: What to Do Right After a Dog Bite

• Assess the Bite. If it’s a serious injury with heavy bleeding, go to the hospital immediately. If it’s minor, clean it with warm water and mild soap.
• Stop the Bleeding. Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 minutes, seek medical care.
• Clean the Wound. Gently clean the wound, apply a sterile bandage, and keep it covered.
• Seek Medical Attention. Even if the bite doesn’t seem serious, it’s important to see a doctor. Dog bites can lead to infections and complications, even from minor injuries.

2. Documentation Matters

• Document the injury and its severity. Capture any relevant details (dog owner, location).
• Get Witness Statements. If anyone saw the incident, ask them to write down what they saw or provide their contact information.
• Report the bite to the police, especially if the dog was unknown. A police report helps establish the facts and provides official documentation.

3. Insurance and Compensation

• Don’t Settle for Low Offers. Insurance companies often make lowball offers. Having a lawyer ensures you get the full compensation you deserve.
• Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Make sure you’re not shortchanged.
• A lawyer can help you navigate the insurance claim process and avoid common pitfalls.

4. Focus on Recovery: Taking Control of Your Future

After a dog bite injury, your primary concern should be your health and recovery. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Skipping prescribed treatments or ignoring advice can lead to complications.

• Monitor for Infection. Dog bites can result in infections that may not show up immediately. Keep an eye on any changes in the wound.
• Rest and Listen to Your Body: Don’t rush the healing process. Overexerting yourself too soon could lead to setbacks.

Why You Shouldn’t Handle This Alone

Suffering a dog bite can be a traumatic experience, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. While it may be tempting to handle the situation on your own, seeking legal assistance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Legal Help Makes a Big Difference

A personal injury attorney understands the complexities of dog bite laws, which can vary by state and locality. They can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. From gathering evidence to dealing with insurance companies, a lawyer’s expertise can strengthen your case and maximize your compensation. 

Most Cases Don’t Go to Trial

Many people worry about the stress and time commitment of going to court, but the reality is that most dog bite claims are settled outside of court. Experienced attorneys handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, working to secure a fair settlement without the need for lengthy litigation. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but having a lawyer ensures that you aren’t pressured into accepting a lowball offer.

Reduce Stress and Focus on Healing

Dealing with medical treatments, lost wages, and emotional trauma after a dog bite is already overwhelming. Adding legal paperwork, claim deadlines, and insurance negotiations to your plate can make recovery even more stressful. When you hire an attorney, they take on these burdens for you, allowing you to focus on healing while they fight for your best interests.

Get the Compensation You Deserve

Dog bite injuries can result in costly medical bills, ongoing treatments, and even long-term complications. A lawyer can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Without legal representation, you risk settling for less than you need to fully recover.

If the Dog Owner Denies Responsibility

After a dog bite incident, you might expect the dog owner to take responsibility, but that’s not always the case. Some owners or their insurance companies may refuse to settle or outright deny liability, claiming that the victim provoked the dog or that their pet had never shown aggression before. This can be frustrating and discouraging, but don’t give up—you still have options to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t Panic—Your Attorney Has Your Back

If the dog owner denies responsibility, it’s important not to panic or feel defeated. Denials are common in personal injury cases, but they don’t mean your claim is invalid. Insurance companies often try to protect their bottom line by avoiding payouts, and some dog owners may refuse to accept fault out of fear of legal consequences. However, a skilled attorney knows how to fight back.

Your lawyer will handle all communications with the dog owner, their insurance provider, and any other involved parties. They will gather crucial evidence to support your claim, such as medical records, witness statements, expert testimonies, and any available surveillance footage. Even if the other party refuses to cooperate, a strong case built on solid evidence can help prove liability.

Legal Action May Be Necessary

If negotiations stall and the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, taking legal action may be the next step. Your attorney can file a lawsuit and present your case in court if necessary. While this might seem daunting, many cases are settled before reaching trial. The threat of litigation alone can often push insurance companies to reconsider their stance and offer fair compensation.

Going to court, if needed, allows you to present evidence before a judge or jury, ensuring that you have a chance to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages resulting from the attack. Your attorney will guide you through the process and fight for your rights every step of the way.

You Deserve the Best—Get the Help You Need Today

No one plans for a dog bite injury, and it can feel overwhelming at first. But with the right guidance, you can take control of the situation and make sure you get the compensation and support you deserve. If you’ve been injured, you don’t have to go through this alone.

Schedule a free consultation with an attorney at Williams DeLoatche, P.C. today by calling 757-547-5555. We’ll help you navigate the process with care, expertise, and a commitment to getting you the results you deserve. Let us handle the legal side while you focus on what matters most—your recovery.