Dog bites are more common than many realize. In the United States, nearly 800,000 people require medical treatment each year due to dog bites. Children and postal workers are among the most frequent victims, but anyone can be at risk. Because these injuries often result in costly medical bills, emotional trauma, and even permanent scarring, dog bite claims are a significant part of personal injury law.

At Hillstone Law, we know that victims often make avoidable mistakes that can weaken their cases and reduce their chance of full compensation. Understanding these pitfalls can help protect your legal rights.

1. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Treatment

One of the most common mistakes after a dog bite is delaying medical care. Many victims assume the wound isn’t serious, only to discover later that the injury has become infected. Dog bites can carry harmful bacteria, and in rare cases, diseases like rabies.

Seeking prompt medical treatment not only protects your health but also creates a clear record linking your injuries to the attack. Emergency room records, wound care notes, and prescribed medications can all serve as crucial evidence in your claim.

2. Not Reporting the Dog Bite

Some victims hesitate to report the incident to police or animal control often because the dog owner pleads with them not to. Unfortunately, relying on an owner’s promise to pay medical bills is risky. Without an official report, the owner may later deny responsibility, leaving you with no recourse.

Reporting the bite ensures that:

• The incident is formally documented
• Authorities can investigate the dog’s history and vaccination status
• You have official evidence to support your claim

In California, reporting is especially important because many dog bite cases qualify for statutory damages.

3. Giving a Statement to the Insurance Company

Insurance adjusters may seem helpful, but their primary goal is to reduce payouts. When victims provide recorded statements, insurers often twist their words to deny or undervalue claims.

Before speaking with any insurance company, consult with a personal injury attorney. At Hillstone Law, we handle communications on your behalf to ensure your words cannot be used against you.

4. Failing to Document the Injuries with Photos

Dog bite wounds can heal over time, sometimes leaving little visible evidence by the time a claim is resolved. Medical records alone may not fully capture the severity of your injury or the pain you endured.

Taking clear, dated photos of your injuries both immediately after the attack and throughout the healing process can make a powerful impact on jurors, judges, or insurance adjusters. This visual evidence helps illustrate the physical and emotional toll of the attack.

5. Not Hiring an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney

Perhaps the most serious mistake victims make is attempting to handle a dog bite claim alone. Insurance companies have teams of negotiators whose goal is to settle cases for as little as possible. Without an experienced lawyer, victims often lack the leverage to demand fair compensation.

At Hillstone Law, our California dog bite attorneys:

• Investigate the incident and gather evidence
• Navigate complex state and local dog bite laws
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
• Take the case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered

With legal representation, you are far more likely to receive compensation that truly covers your medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and any long-term effects of the attack.

Protecting Your Rights After a Dog Bite

Dog bite cases can be emotionally and physically challenging. The decisions you make immediately after the attack can significantly affect the outcome of your case. By avoiding these common mistakes and seeking experienced legal help, you increase your chances of securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, contact Hillstone Law today for a free consultation. Our dedicated California personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.