With approximately 77.5 million dogs in America, most families have a dog as a pet. Unfortunately, these pets who we adore are still animals. Annually, around 4.5 million people are attacked and bitten by dogs. The Agency for Health Research and Quality indicates that over 316,000 dog bites result in a visit to the emergency room due to serious injuries each year.
What to do After a Dog Bite
Dog bites are serious matters and can cause permanent injuries or even fatalities. The average cost of a hospitalization related to a dog bite injury is over $18,000. Along with substantial medical bills, a victim may also suffer a great deal of pain and trauma following a dog bite. If you or someone you love suffered any kind of injury related to a dog bite, make sure to always follow these steps:
- Call 911. Never hesitate to contact the police and 911 after a dog bite. It is imperative that the police create an official report regarding the incident and visit with the dog owner at the scene where the bite occurred.
- Seek Medical Attention. If you call 911, they may provide emergency services, and take you by ambulance to the hospital. If you refuse emergency treatment, make sure to see a medical professional as soon as possible to ensure that you do not have rabies, and receive treatment as appropriate for any wounds.
- Continually Monitor the Wound. Continually check your wounds even after you seek medical attention. This is critical because some wounds may develop serious infections that are life-threatening. If you feel as if your injuries or wounds have additional symptoms or become more severe, you should again visit with your healthcare provider immediately.
Rabies
Rabies is not an eradicated disease, and can occur in humans after a bite. Even if the dog owner says that the dog does not have rabies, and has had a shot, you should always request to see the tag and collar proving that the animal has received the vaccination and take down any numbers or veterinarian contact information. Your health is paramount, and rabies is an easily treatable disease, but must be caught early. In some cases, you may need to obtain a rabies shot simply out of an abundance of caution, or if the dog owner leaves without providing you with enough information.
Dog Bite Statute of Limitations
A statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit within a state’s civil court system. The statute of limitations in the state of Missouri is five years while it is only two years in the State of Kansas. The laws in the state of Kansas and Missouri differ regarding dog bites and the rights of victims, and it is always best to visit with an experienced attorney in order to ensure your legal rights are protected.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today
Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at Griggs Injury Law at (816) 474-0202 who have experience regarding dog bites and the rights of victims. Learn your legal rights, and how to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
