Dogs are often called man’s best friend. Under certain circumstances, they can become a vicious enemy. A dog’s bite can be worse than its bark. It can be scary and tragic when there is a dog attack. Nobody wakes up and says, “Today is a good day to get attacked by a dog,” but sometimes it happens.
According to a CDC report, dog bites are one of the more common types of injury, even cause of death. “In 1994, an estimated 4.7 million persons (1.8% of the U.S. population) sustained a dog bite; of these, approximately 800,000 (0.3%) sought medical care for the bite.”
What to Do If Attacked
The attack is over and the immediate danger has passed. The injuries can range from minor to severe. It is important to seek medical attention. Trauma can be psychological as well as physical. Emotional reactions can range from sadness to outrage. Wanting to take matters into their own hands is natural for victims and their loved ones. Taking a breath and making a few intelligent decisions is better. Dogs and people can make mistakes. Victims of these mistakes should first take these three steps.
Step One
Select a personal injury attorney. A friend or family member might be able to recommend one. Searching for one online and looking at the attorneys’ review rating can help. Find one close by that can assist with moving towards the best road to recovery. Look for an expert that has experience and is familiar with animal attack laws.
Step Two
Schedule an appointment with the attorney’s office. This can be as simple as picking up the phone and talking to an assistant. Many offices have online appointment booking as an option. Discovering what information to bring can make things easier. Having all the facts and details written down ahead of time streamlines the process. Some offices do not even need payment unless there is a settlement
Step Three
Go to your appointment and get quality legal advice. Legal counsel can make the aftermath of an attack more manageable. An attorney can answer questions about what to do next. Outlining the options available fosters the healing process. Moving forward allows victims to spend less time worrying.
Dogs can be lovable and amazing members of the family. Dogs can also injure or kill people. Victims should not feel lost and helpless. Medical care and psychological counseling are part of the healing. Victims should also find an attorney and seek legal advice.
Author Bio: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer living in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys reading and indoor rock climbing. Find her on Google +
