- If the attack broke your skin, even slightly, get to a doctor ASAP. Dogs frequently have Pasteurella in their mouths. Left untreated, the slightest wound can cause a dangerous infection that must be treated by IV antibiotics and even surgery.
- Try to establish who owns the dog and where they live. Homeowner’s insurance often applies to these cases.
- Get the name and number of anyone who saw the attack, gave you help after the attack, or who claims to know the history of the dog. Any of these people could prove to be an important witness.
- Check the area for security cameras that might have recorded video of the attack or recorded the dog roaming the neighborhood off-leash in the days before you were attacked. Some of these devices tape over the video for a few days
- Consider consulting with a personal injury trial lawyer who has an investigator on staff. As it is in many cases, the investigation needs to start early and be meticulous. Our investigations are conducted by a former federal agent. We leave no stone unturned in our effort to see that Cliff Carpenter’s training and experience pay dividends in our clients’ cases. In nine out of ten cases, he will speak to you the first day you call us.
A SPECIAL NOTE TO PARENTS OF A CHILD ATTACKED BY A DOG
A recent hospital study of children attacked by dogs in the Central Texas area revealed a large number of attacks that resulted in a child seeking emergency care. Teach your children how to approach a dog they do not know. The study confirmed findings in prior studies conducted in other states. 55% of children attacked by dogs sustain some degree of post-traumatic stress disorder. This can range from an exaggerated startle reflex to a more severe condition. To understand this phenomenon, an adult would have to experience an attack by a bear. Studies show emergency room doctors largely ignore this aspect. If your child’s reaction warrants getting help, give us a call. We work with psychologists and counselors who specialize in trauma therapy. We can arrange this type of treatment for your child.
There is no fee for an initial consultation. We will never send you a bill. We are only paid if we are successful in obtaining a recovery for you.
