Steps to Take after a Dog Bite
Dog bites are a common source of serious injuries; every year about 4 million Americans seek emergency medical treatment after being attacked by dogs. Children are especially vulnerable to these injuries, but they can happen to anyone. In the event of a dog attack, it is very important to know the correct way to administer first aid.
If you or a member of your family has been hurt by a negligently supervised pet, you could have grounds for receiving financial compensation. To learn more, call Jacksonville dog bite attorney Don Guthrie at 904-296-1088.
Dog Bite First Aid
If someone has been injured by a stray or unsupervised dog, you can help by taking the following steps:
- If the victim is bleeding, clean your hands with soap or sanitizer before touching the affected area if possible. Skin lacerations are highly susceptible to painful infections.
- Quickly evaluate the severity of the injury. If it is wide, deep, bleeding heavily, or affecting a sensitive area like the face or hands, call emergency services immediately. You should also call emergency services if the dog’s owner is not present or able to verify that it has been vaccinated against rabies. If there is any chance that the victim has been exposed to rabies, he or she needs professional care as soon as possible.
- Elevate the wound to reduce bleeding. If possible, wash it out with clean, cool water and apply a sterile bandage. If it is severe, keep it elevated while waiting for help to arrive.
- Even if the wound is not severe, you should have a doctor examine it when possible. It may need a thorough cleaning to prevent infection, or there may be other potential complications that a doctor can predict and prevent.
The costs of a serious dog bite can be extensive, ranging from medical bills to missed work to psychological trauma. Our experienced Jacksonville dog bite lawyers can help you pursue the fair compensation you need.
Contact Us
If you have been a victim of a pet owner’s negligence, you need experienced legal counsel to ensure your rights are protected. To discuss your rights with an experienced Jacksonville personal injury lawyer, contact Don Guthrie at 904-296-1088.