How To Know If Your Dog Bite Is Serious Enough To Take To Court

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Some dog bites are relatively minor nips that do not warrant medical attention. However, depending on how severe the bite is, you might need to go to the hospital and may even need reconstructive surgery. Depending on the severity of the bite, you may need to speak with a dog bite lawyer about whether it would be worthwhile to take your case to court.

Receive an Examination From a Medical Professional

The only way to know if your dog bite is serious is to receive an examination from a medical professional. You'll also want to receive treatment so you can recover more quickly. Also, to receive compensation for your injuries, you must have medical bills that can prove the severity of your injury.

Dog bites that break the skin can be serious and can lead to infections, scarring, nerve damage, chronic pain, and even paralysis. In some cases, the bacteria in a dog's bite can lead to sepsis, which can be fatal. If you aren't sure how serious the bite is, extreme pain is often a sign that you will need medical treatment. 

Record Everything 

Write down everything you remember about the attack and any witnesses to the attack. Write down any medical treatments that you have received and the experiences you had as a result of the dog bite. This includes the emotional shock you may have experienced during the attack and the pain you suffered days afterward. 

Talk about the impact that the attack had on your life. This will be used when arguing to the court that you deserve compensation for pain and suffering. Then, make sure to speak with a dog bite lawyer. With experience with dog bite cases, your lawyer will know how to make a solid argument for why you deserve compensation for your injuries.

The Dog Must Be At Fault

If you were trespassing or tormenting the dog, the owner might argue that the dog is not at fault for the bite. However, if you are able to prove that you were attacked unprovoked, the owner may be held liable and you may be able to reach a settlement. 

The dog might have bitten someone in the past. If so, the owner is especially liable for any injuries that result because they should have taken steps necessary to train the dog or keep the dog separated from the larger community. You may even be able to seek punitive damages.

Contact a local dog bite lawyer to learn more.

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6 April 2021

Working With A Lawyer

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