A dog bite or attack can be both physically painful and emotionally traumatic. In the aftermath, victims often find themselves juggling medical treatment and trying to gather important information about the incident. While your health and safety should be your top priority, taking the right steps after a dog attack can also strengthen your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
The attorneys at Hillstone Law are here to guide you through the process. Below are the key steps you should take if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in San Jose.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Dog bites can cause severe injuries, including deep puncture wounds, infections, and permanent scarring. Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care clinic right away. A doctor will treat the wound, administer necessary vaccines, and document your injuries—records that will be crucial in any legal claim.
2. Exchange Information with the Dog’s Owner and Witnesses
If possible, collect the dog owner’s name, contact information, and the dog’s vaccination history. Also, speak with any witnesses who saw the attack and get their contact details. Eyewitness statements can play an important role in supporting your claim.
3. File a Report with Police and Animal Control
California law requires dog bites and attacks to be reported to local authorities. Filing a report with law enforcement and animal control ensures there is an official record of the incident, which can be vital when pursuing a personal injury claim.
4. Document the Attack and Your Injuries
Detailed documentation will strengthen your case. Be sure to keep:
- Photos and videos of your injuries and the scene
- Medical records and insurance documentation
- Written notes or journal entries about the incident and your recovery
- Contact information and statements from witnesses
- A timeline of events before and after the attack
- Copies of any communication with the dog owner or insurance companies
Also, maintain records of all expenses, such as hospital bills, prescriptions, and lost wages.
5. Contact a San Jose Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bite cases in California can be complicated. Liability may depend on the circumstances of the attack, local ordinances, and whether the dog has a history of aggression. An experienced San Jose dog bite attorney at Hillstone Law can evaluate your case, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Hillstone Law Is Here to Help
At Hillstone Law, our San Jose dog bite lawyers are committed to helping victims recover full and fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Call us today for a free consultation and let us fight to protect your rights after a dog attack.
