Receiving a dog bite can often be a frightening and painful experience. If you find yourself in this situation in Delaware, knowing your options can help you move forward. Here is what you might consider doing after a dog bite incident.
Seek medical attention immediately
After a dog bite, your health should be your top priority. Even if the wound seems minor, it might be important to get it examined by a medical professional. Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage or other serious complications.
A doctor can properly clean the wound, assess the damage and determine if you need antibiotics or a tetanus shot. Additionally, medical records will document your injuries, which could be important later.
Report the incident to the authorities
You may want to report the dog bite to your local animal control agency or police department. This step serves multiple purposes. First, it creates an official record of the incident. Second, it alerts the authorities to a potentially dangerous animal. If the dog has bitten others or is not properly vaccinated, reporting the incident helps protect your community.
Delaware law generally requires that animal control investigate reported dog bites, which may include quarantining the animal to check for rabies.
Document everything you can
Gathering evidence after a dog bite can be useful. You might want to consider taking photographs of your injuries, torn clothing and the location where the bite occurred. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information.
It could also help to write down details about the incident while they are fresh in your memory. This typically includes the time, location and circumstances surrounding the bite. If possible, learn more about the dog and its owner, including vaccination records.
Learn about Delaware’s dog bite laws
Delaware follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bites in many circumstances. This means that dog owners are generally liable the injuries their dogs inflict. This could apply even if the dog has never shown aggression before. However, there are general exceptions under state law. For example, if you were trespassing, committing a criminal offense or provoking the animal, the dog’s owner may not be liable for your injury.
If you have sustained significant injuries or face mounting medical bills, you might want to speak with an attorney familiar with dog bite cases. A legal professional can help you understand your rights and options under Delaware law. They can also assist in pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Moving forward after a dog bite
By taking prompt action after a dog bite, you can protect your health and preserve your legal options. Seeking medical care, reporting the incident and documenting the details can strengthen your position if you decide to pursue compensation for your injuries and related losses.