San Diego Dog Bite Lawyer

An estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States. Dog bites are a significant public health and safety concern and can result in considerable emotional distress, lasting physical harm, and even fatality.  In 2022 alone, 60,000 Californians visited emergency rooms due to dog encounters, with 87% of these being dog bites. San Diego County reports around 2,500 dog bites annually to the California Department of Public Health and ranks fifth nationally for dog bites to postal carriers.

Navigating the aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming and stressful, especially if you or a loved one are dealing with physical or psychological harm. Our team is here to offer support and guidance every step of the way. We’ll help you understand exactly what to do after a dog bite incident. We’ll also explain why it can be important to call a lawyer. 

What to Do After a Dog Bite

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a dog bite in San Diego, there are steps you can take to ensure fair compensation.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If the dog bite results in injuries, it’s critical to get medical attention immediately, no matter how minor or severe the injuries may seem. Even if a bite wound seems okay, bites can introduce bacteria that could lead to serious infection. Medical professionals can also assess the risk of rabies and administer necessary vaccinations. Prompt medical treatment also ensures proper wound care, reducing the chances of permanent scarring and further complications.

Additionally, medical documentation of the injury is essential for any potential legal case or insurance claim. Immediate medical care provides an official record of the incident. 

Document Everything

Documenting every detail of the incident after a dog bite is essential for both medical and legal reasons. Photographs of the injury, information about the dog, and information about the dog’s owner will help medical professionals provide appropriate treatment and track the healing process.

At the same time, detailed records of the circumstances surrounding the bite are essential for filing insurance claims and pursuing compensation. These records may include where and how the bite happened, who witnessed the incident, and details about the moments leading up to the bite. Thorough documentation ensures that all aspects of the incident are accurately captured.

Preserve Medical Records

Keep a detailed account of all medical treatment resulting from the dog bite, including emergency room visits, follow-up appointments, prescriptions, and any communication with healthcare professionals about your injury. These records are crucial to demonstrating the extent and impact of your injuries. This is an important step, even after the dog bite begins to heal, and even if the injuries were minor.

Report the Incident

Report the dog bite to local animal control authorities or the police department in San Diego. An official report helps to determine appropriate action against the responsible parties and also acts as an additional layer of documentation for your case.

Contact a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Legal matters involving dog bites can be intricate and challenging to navigate, particularly in California. The impact of a dog bite can extend far beyond the initial injury. Dog bites can require expensive medical treatment, cause lasting emotional distress, and in some cases, result in long-term disability. Conger Law recognizes the seriousness of these incidents, and is committed to helping victims understand their rights and options.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite, it’s crucial to seek legal expertise right away. A lawyer specializing in dog bite injuries can evaluate your case thoroughly and advocate for your rights. Conger Law offers comprehensive consultations for individuals and families dealing with the aftermath of dog bite incidents. For expert guidance and representation in San Diego, reach out to Conger Law Injury Attorneys.

Citations

Dog Attack Statistics By Breed 2024, Forbes Advisor
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/dog-attack-statistics-breed

DOG BITES IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Report by San Diego Department of Public Health
https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/grandjury/reports/2023-2024/dog-bites/23-24%20Dog%20Bite%20Report.pdf