California has the highest number of dog bite claims in the country. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to properly document your injuries in case you need or want to pursue legal action later. Having a good record of your injuries can help if you file a dog bite lawsuit or insurance claim down the road. Here are some tips on documenting dog bite injuries:
Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Your first step is to seek medical care as soon as possible after the bite. The faster you get treatment, the better chance you have of avoiding infection and minimizing scarring. The medical records from your initial treatment will provide critical documentation of the bite wounds and your condition right after the attack. Be sure to follow all your doctor’s orders, including returning for follow-up appointments. Keep track of all treatment dates, medications prescribed, and procedures done. Save all receipts and billing statements as well.
Take Photos of Bite Wounds
Visual evidence can be powerful documentation. Take multiple photos of every bite wound from different angles and distances. Zoom in on the actual puncture marks and any bruising or swelling. Also, take full body shots to show the location of the bites. Take new pictures every few days as the wounds heal to document progression. Be sure every photo is date and time stamped.
Write Down Details of the Attack
Record a written statement of what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include key details like date, time, and exact location of the attack. Provide a description of the dog including breed, color, size, collar or leash, and name if known. Document everything you recall about the incident including what led up to the bite and what happened immediately afterwards. Did the owner apologize or offer assistance? Was a police report filed? Jot down any witnesses who saw the attack.
Keep Related Documents
Hold on to any paperwork you receive related to the incident. This includes medical bills, insurance claims, receipts, police reports, animal control reports, citations if issued, and even veterinary records for the dog showing vaccine history. Also, keep any correspondence with the dog owner, their homeowner’s insurance, or your own health insurance provider. Maintain records of any out of pocket costs like prescriptions, medical equipment, lost wages due to missed work, etc.
Contact Witnesses
Reach out to anyone who saw the attack and ask if they would be willing to give a statement. Their account of what happened can help corroborate your version of events. Many witnesses may be eager to share their side if they saw an unprovoked bite or irresponsible dog owner. Just be sure to get their contact information.
Consult a Dog Bite Attorney
An experienced dog bite lawyer can help guide you through the injury documentation process and determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit. They know the laws in California regarding dog bites and owner liability. An attorney can also handle communication with insurance companies and preserve evidence like veterinary, animal control, and police records before they are destroyed.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a preventable dog bite attack, contact Binder Law Group for a free consultation. Our experienced dog bite injury lawyers serve clients throughout the Los Angeles area. We can help you recover damages to pay for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.
Visit our office at 16633 Ventura Blvd. #602 Encino, CA 91436.
Or call now for a free consultation on (818) 659-8588.