Dog bites can be traumatic, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional scars, and medical bills, and knowing what steps to take after a dog bite is crucial to protecting your health and legal rights. In Virginia, specific laws govern dog bite cases, and understanding them can help you secure compensation for your injuries.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you’re bitten by a dog in Virginia.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first and most important step after a dog bite is to address your injuries. Even minor bites can lead to infections or complications if left untreated.
- Clean the wound–Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
- Call a doctor–A healthcare professional can assess the wound, administer a tetanus shot if needed, and determine if rabies treatment is necessary.
- Treatment follow-up–Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to the bite. These documents are essential if you decide to pursue a claim.
2. Identify the Dog and Its Owner
Knowing the dog’s owner is critical for several reasons. It allows you to confirm whether the dog is up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and helps establish liability if you file a claim.
- Ask for proof of vaccination–Request the dog’s vaccination records to determine your risk of contracting rabies.
- Collect contact information–Obtain the owner’s name, address, and phone number.
- Identify witnesses–If others saw the incident, collect their contact details. Witness statements can support your claim.
3. Report the Incident
In Virginia, reporting a dog bite to local authorities is essential. Contact your county’s animal control office or the local police department to file a report.
Why File a Report?
Reporting the bite creates an official record of the incident, which can be helpful in your case. Authorities may also investigate the dog’s history for prior aggressive behavior.
What Happens Next?
Animal control may quarantine or evaluate the dog to determine if it poses a risk to others.
4. Document Your Injuries and the Scene
Clear documentation is key to building a solid case. Take the following steps to preserve evidence:
- Photograph your injuries–Take pictures of the bite wound immediately after the incident and throughout the healing process.
- Capture the scene–Photograph where the bite occurred and any relevant surroundings, such as an open gate or broken leash.
- Keep a journal–Record details about the incident, including the time, date, and circumstances leading up to the bite.
What You Should Know About Virginia’s Dog Bite Laws
Virginia operates under a “one-bite rule,” meaning a dog owner may be liable if they knew or should have known their dog had a tendency to bite or behave aggressively. However, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression, owners may still be liable for negligence, such as failing to restrain their dog properly.
Consult a Virginia Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bite cases can be legally complex, and insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. An attorney can help you navigate the process and fight for the compensation you deserve, including:
- Medical expenses–The cost of treatment, medication, and future care.
- Lost wages–Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering–Addressing the emotional and physical toll of the incident.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Virginia, don’t wait to take action. Contact Simeone & Miller LLP today so we can start working on your claim.
