Dog Bite Lawyers

Dogs may be man’s best friend, but they’re still animals at the end of the day, which means they act on instinct. And sometimes, a dog has the instinct to bite.

Even the sweetest, most beloved family pets will bite people in certain scenarios if they feel threatened. When they do, the resulting damages can be catastrophic.  

It doesn’t take a serious attack to pose the risk of potentially life-threatening complications such as infection, disease, and even rabies. Scarring and disfigurement are also common, which can be especially devastating for young children who were bitten in the face.

Fortunately, dog bite victims have the right to pursue compensation for their losses. If you or someone in your family suffered a dog bite in New York City or Massachusetts, contact Charnas Law Firm. Scott Charnas is a compassionate dog bite attorney who knows what’s at stake for each and every one of his clients. Call 212-980-6800 to schedule a free case evaluation.

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite?

While personal injury law varies by state, the procedure for handling a dog bite can actually differ by county. How the local animal control agency responds to incidents depends on a variety of factors, including their funding, facilities, and staffing, which is why it might vary by municipality.

In general, though, there are a few steps you should always take following a dog bite to protect your health and increase your chances of filing a successful personal injury claim down the road. These steps include:

• Exchange Information: Get the owner or handler’s name, phone number, and address. If the dog has any tags on its collar, write down the information they contain, as well. If anyone else saw the incident happen, get their names and contact information so your dog bite attorney can use their testimony.

• Contact Animal Control: Call the nearest animal control agency before the owner or handler leaves. They will inform you of the next steps, which might include taking the dog in for quarantine and monitoring. If you were bitten by a stray, animal control will arrive at the scene and attempt to catch it so it does not pose a danger to anyone else.

• Seek Medical Care: If you are not bleeding profusely, it may be tempting to postpone seeking care. But even a minor bite can result in infection—or worse—so it’s essential to visit a doctor immediately. This will also serve to strengthen any subsequent personal injury claim by proving a direct link between the incident and any health complications that follow.

• Document Everything: Photograph the progression of the wound, and start a journal detailing the ways in which the bite is affecting your everyday life. You should also save all receipts, invoices, and records you receive regarding your care.

Call 212-980-6800 for a Free Consultation with a Dog Bite Lawyer

If you’re in need of a dog bite lawyer in New York City or Massachusetts, look no further than Charnas Law Firm. Attorney Scott Charnas has recovered nearly $50 million for injury victims and their loved ones. Call 212-980-6800 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned personal injury attorney.