Phoenix Personal Injury Lawyers
At Hamilton Law Firm, PLLC we know a dog bite injury can be devastating. In some cases, victims suffer disfigurement or scarring that impacts them not only physically, but emotionally. If you or a loved one are the victim of a pitbull dog attack or have been injured by any size/breed of dog, consult with a Scottsdale dog bite lawyer right away to protect your legal rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Even a small dog bite can be serious; some small breeds are particularly vicious and can leave you needing medical attention, stitches, or other treatment. Many of us today have fur babies that are part of our families; however, this does not mean all dogs are ‘man’s best friend.’ A dog bite infection often leads to other complications that require costly medical treatment.
What to do if a dog bites you
First, wash the wound with mild soap and warm water. After rinsing, use a clean cloth to help stop the bleeding. If you have it on hand, apply an OTC antibiotic medication such as Neosporin. Wrap with a sterile bandage, and keep bandaged until you see your physician for an examination. Replace the bandage three to four times daily, and keep an eye out for fever, redness, swelling, and other signs of dog bite infection. (This is not medical advice. Please contact your doctor for appropriate care for your wound).
Additionally, you will want to obtain proof of rabies vaccination from the dog’s owner if he/she was present or you can find out who the owner is. Notify police and animal control of the incident so they can make sure the owner takes action to prevent a similar incident in the future. Contact an experienced Phoenix dog bite attorney to learn how you can obtain compensation for costs associated to the dog bite such as medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Dogs often bite when they are protecting their territory or feel threatened. The dog owner is liable, regardless of whether he/she was present when the attack occurred, unless the victim trespassed on their property.
In the state of Arizona, there are two statutes of limitations. In cases where it is not necessary to prove the dog owner knew of the dog’s propensity for biting, you must file a claim within one year. In cases where it is necessary to prove the owner knew of his/her pet’s propensity for biting or viciousness, you must file a claim within two years. The best thing you can do is to consult with a dog attack attorney right away.
Each year approximately 4.5 to 5 million people are bitten by dogs in the U.S. While children make up a large portion of this number, adults are victims of dog bites as well. A dog bite injury can be especially traumatic when it occurs to the face, head, or ears.
Compensation for a dog bite or attack can include not only current medical bills, but those related to the injury in the future as well. You may also be eligible for compensation of costs for pain and suffering, lost wages, permanent injury, emotional trauma, and necessary psychological treatment. If you are in the Scottsdale or Phoenix area, contact dog bite attorney Amy Hamilton now at 480-221-0000.