While many dogs may be friendly by nature, some could exhibit aggressive behaviors that might scare others or put their safety at risk. Should a landowner in Delaware fail to keep a dog restrained or if it is free to roam a neighborhood, anyone that crosses paths with the animal might be at risk of being bitten, and dog bites could create various health concerns. As similar incidents can occur at any given moment, knowing some of the steps to take after suffering a dog bite could prove vital.
Understanding the steps to take after a similar incident may play a vital role in preparing to safeguard one’s interests should the unthinkable occur, and some of these steps might include:
- Seek treatment: Dog bits can create various health issues and those who suffer harm may find it essential to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
- Notify authorities: It may also be necessary to notify authorities about the incident and should animal control investigate the matter, obtaining a copy of the official report may be imperative.
- Witness statements: If others nearby witnessed the bite, one could benefit from obtaining their contact information and statements.
- Contact information: Another step to take could involve speaking with the dog’s owner about the incident and exchanging contact information with this party.
It may also be integral to take thorough notes about the incident and keep detailed records about one’s injuries and resulting medical treatment.
While the idea of suffering severe harm in such an incident may be a stressful concept, dog bites remain unfortunately common. Those who experience a similar scenario and remain uncertain of how best to approach the situation could consider speaking with an attorney for advice on their available legal avenues. An attorney can help a client in Delaware understand all the available options and assist him or her in preparing to seek the restitution entitled through the appropriate outlets.