Protecting the Legal Rights of Dog Bite Victims

According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2019-2020 Pet Owners Survey, about 63 million U.S. households own dogs. Unfortunately, not every dog is "man's best friend." The behavior and temperament of a dog are highly dependent upon the way it's been trained and cared for. When a dog owner neglects these important duties, innocent people can get hurt. In fact, the CDC reports that approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, and about 800,000 of those bites require the victim to seek medical care.

If you've been bitten by a dog, you may be traumatized, hurt, and facing a serious financial burden due to lost wages and/or medical bills. As the dog bite injury lawyer West Chester, OH residents recommend, Stepleton Law, LLC is here to help. We are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of anyone who has been the victim of a dog attack and bringing negligent dog owners to justice. Schedule your FREE initial consultation right away.

What to Do (And Not to Do) If You've Been Bitten by a Dog

The aftermath of a dog attack can be frightening and confusing. You may be seriously injured and wondering how you're going to pay for your medical treatment. Not sure what to do immediately after being bitten? Our lawyers will give you the following advice:

Do: Document Everything

Start by identifying the dog owner and anyone else involved, including witnesses. Write down their names and contact information. Photograph the dog, the scene, and your injuries.

Don't: Discuss Money or Compensation

This is a conversation you'll need to have with your lawyer first. Avoid talking about money and do not accept any payment without consulting a dog bite lawyer West Chester, OH residents trust - Stepleton Law.

Do: Seek Medical Attention

If your injuries are severe or life-threatening, go to the ER or an urgent care center right away. Otherwise, visit your doctor within 24 hours for any necessary treatment and a physical exam. Make sure to keep any and all documentation provided by a medical professional.

Don't: Admit Fault

Whether or not you feel responsible for the attack is irrelevant at this point. Do not apologize. Even if you somehow provoked the animal, it's possible that other factors out of your control contributed to the dog's behavior and your resulting injuries. An investigation will need to be conducted to determine fault.

Do: Get Legal Representation

Before filing a claim, consult a lawyer who has experience with dog bite injury cases. They will help you navigate the legal process, increasing your chances of receiving compensation. Call Stepleton Law at (513) 321-7733 to set up your FREE initial consultation.

Contact the Lawyers West Chester, OH Residents Rely On

Don't hesitate to hold a negligent dog owner accountable. Call Stepleton Law at (513) 321-7733 to discuss your case and legal options. Se habla español!