What to do after a dog bite
- Clean the wound and get medical care. Bites infect easily.
- Get the owner's name, address, and the dog's vaccination information.
- Report the bite to animal control or the police.
- Photograph your injuries as they heal, and the place it happened.
- Talk to witnesses and write down what happened while it's fresh.
Who pays for a dog bite?
Claims are often paid through the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance. The rules on owner responsibility vary from state to state, which is why a quick case review helps.
Frequently asked questions
Does it matter if the dog bit someone before?
In some states it can. Other states hold owners responsible even for a first bite. An attorney can explain the rules across the U.S..
My child was bitten. Can I file for them?
Yes, a parent or guardian can usually bring a claim on a child's behalf, including for scarring and emotional harm.
The dog belongs to a friend or neighbor. Will this hurt them?
Claims are typically paid by the owner's insurance, not out of their pocket. Many people are relieved to learn this.
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