What to Do After a Dog Bite

As Chicago personal injury attorneys who have handled many dog bite cases, we have seen the serious consequences of dog bites. Dog bites should always be considered serious if the skin is punctured due to the potential for infection. If you have been bitten by a dog, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the bite appears to be minor. The CDC warns that dog bites can result in life-threatening infections, often caused by the Capnocytophagia bacteria, that can cause serious complications. According to the CDC, the infection can cause “a heart attack, kidney failure, and gangrene. Some people may need to have fingers, toes, or even limbs amputated because of complications from severe infection.”

If you have been bitten by a dog, there are a few steps you can take to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries:

Get medical treatment: Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the bite appears to be minor.
Document the bite: Take photos of the bite wound and make a record of any medical treatment you receive.
Identify the dog and its owner: If possible, try to identify the dog and its owner. This may be necessary in order to seek compensation for your injuries.
Report the bite: Report the bite to the local animal control agency or police department. This is important for public safety and can also help with any potential legal action.
Consult with a lawyer: If you have been bitten by a dog and want to seek compensation for your injuries, it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We can help you understand your rights and options for seeking compensation.

Here at Zneimer & Zneimer we have prosecuted a number of cases involving dog bite injuries and can help with investigation and prosecution of your case.