The choices you make after being hurt in a San Diego dog attack can affect your ability to fully recover and the likelihood that you will receive fair compensation for your injuries. Depending on the circumstances of the attack, you could be eligible for support for your medical bills, future treatments, pain psychological counseling, and other related losses.
Right after being attacked, your heart may be racing and you may be in a considerable amount of pain. Try to remain calm and get yourself out of harm’s way. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your legal rights:
- Identify the dog and its owners.
- Write down where the dog owner lives and take photos of the dog if possible.
- Report the dog attack to the police department and to animal control.
- Photograph the site of the accident and the injuries you have suffered.
- Continue to take photos of your injuries as they heal.
- See a doctor as soon as possible.
- Request copies of the medical records related to the accident.
- Keep records of your medical expenses.
- Write a journal of your daily struggles since the attack.
- Do not discuss the specifics of the attack with the dog owner or their insurance provider without first receiving legal guidance
Under California law, victims of San Diego dog attacks can hold the owner of the dog liable for their injuries. In fact, the dog owner can be held financially responsible for injuries and damages caused by his or her pet. Injured victims can seek compensation to cover damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, cost of surgery, scarring or disfigurement, and pain and suffering. An experienced San Diego dog bite attorney can help injured victims seek compensation and hold negligent dog owners accountable.
