5 Tips for What to Do After an Animal Attack

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Whether you’ve been bitten by the neighbor’s dog or mauled in the face by a friend’s cat, it’s important to take action after an animal attack. The person who owns the animal is responsible for everything the animal does, especially if that animal causes injuries. Don’t just sit back and take an animal attack. Not only do you not deserve that, but it is also your responsibility to keep vicious animals from hurting others! If an animal has attacked you or if you ever are attacked, there are a few things that you’ll need to do right away: Identify the Animal If you were bitten or attacked at someone’s home or by an animal you are familiar with, you already know a key piece of information: the owner of the animal that attacked you. Other times, however, it can be difficult to determine who owns the ferocious animal. If you can’t identify the animal yourself, ask others who live or work in the vicinity of where the attack occurred; chances are they’ll be familiar with the animal. If all else fails, you can put up descriptions of the animal with a phone number where you can be reached by anyone able to provide identifying information. You can’t receive justice if you don’t know who the animal belongs to; not even the best Oklahoma City animal attack lawyer can help you in that instance! Thus, make every possible effort to determine ownership of the animal. Seek Medical Assistance Even if you do not appear to be seriously injured after an animal attack, you should still be checked out by a doctor. You need to be tested for rabies and other diseases and illnesses that could be transmitted by an animal. Also, it’s important to have a record of the incident and any injuries you sustained as a result on file. While you should always seek documentation of your medical care and evaluation, doing so is especially important if you sustain any of the following severe injuries: * An injury that requires surgery * Loss of finger/toe or other body part * Injuries that cause any type of disability or permanent damage * Injuries that cause facial scarring File a Bite Report As mentioned, it is your job to make the powers that be aware of the fact that a dangerous animal exists. You can call your local law enforcement office to determine how to file such a report. In some areas, you may have to make a report to the local police department, with animal control, or with the city board. In some cases, you may even need to report the incident to all of these authorities. Whatever you are instructed to do, do it! Having this information on file can only help your case. Set Up a Consultation If your injuries are severe, and you wish to seek justice for them, your next step should be to speak with an attorney. Choose an attorney who specializes in dog bite cases and/or who has handled these cases before. Typically, you can book a free consultation with these professionals. During the consultation, you’ll be able to explain what happened, and the attorney determine if you are likely to win your case or get a settlement. Total it Up If you decide that the case is worth pursuing, you’ll want to determine how much to sue for or to ask to settle for. Consider the cost of any medical bills related to the incident, money you’ve missed due to time off of work, pain and suffering, and other expenses. Your attorney can help you to figure out the total amount you should ask for as well. Once you have this figure down, you’re ready to start seeking the justice you deserve!