A dog bite can be an incredibly traumatic and frightening experience. Beyond the physical pain of the injury, you may also feel confused, betrayed, and conflicted about what to do next—especially if the dog belongs to a friend or family member. If you’re wondering what to do if bitten by a dog, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights.
However, no matter the situation behind the attack, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Understanding what to do if bitten by a dog is essential for protecting your rights and physical recovery.
This blog post will explain how to safeguard your legal rights if you are injured by a dog bite. We’ll cover the immediate steps after an attack, the legal process around dog bite cases, and the timeline for recovering compensation for your injuries.
What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Dog
It’s normal to feel shocked or frozen after a dog bite. However, the actions you take moments after the attack are critical. Knowing what to do if you are bitten by a dog can help you avoid legal complications that can make recovery more challenging.
Let’s walk through the essential steps Kentucky residents should take after a dog bite.
Get Help
First, your safety is the priority after a dog bite. Get away from the dog, whether by going inside a building, a car, or another safe enclosed area. Call 911 and tell them what happened, where you are, and what the dog looks like. If the dog is still loose, inform them so they can contact the police or animal control.
Seek Medical Care
If first responders tell you to go to the hospital, listen to them. Even if your injury doesn’t require emergency care, go to a doctor or urgent care center. Even minor dog bites can lead to infections or complications such as rabies. Immediately visiting a healthcare provider ensures your injuries are adequately treated and any potential risks are addressed.
Document the Incident
When it’s safe, take photos of your injuries, the dog, and where the attack happened. Write down everything you can about the incident, e.g., day, time, and events leading up to it. Keep a record of any treatment you receive for your injuries, including bills, doctors’ reports, prescriptions, and other medical documents.
Identify the Dog’s Owner
Get the contact information from the dog’s owner, including the name of their homeowners’ insurance company, if you can. However, avoid confrontational behavior. If they are aggressive or angry, don’t engage. It’s best to say as little as possible until you speak to a legal professional.
File a Report
Kentucky law requires medical professionals to report dog bite incidents to the local health department. You can also report the event to your local animal control agency. Having an official record of the event helps protect others from potential harm and can support a later legal claim.
Contact a Lawyer
Support from an experienced attorney is crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery after a dog bite. Victims of dog bite injuries in Kentucky have the right to seek compensation for their harm. Damages are often covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance coverage. The coverage of anyone who allowed the dog to be on their property may also apply. A lawyer familiar with dog bite cases can review your situation and help you navigate your rights in the legal process. With the support of a skilled attorney, you could receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. The team at McCoy & Sparks has helped dog-bite victims recover large six-figure settlements in multiple cases. We understand the law and how to maximize your recovery.
When Can I File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Kentucky
Under Kentucky law, anyone bitten by a dog has the legal right to file a dog bite lawsuit to seek compensation for their injuries. Kentucky follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bite injuries. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for the harm their dog causes without being found negligent in their care for others’ safety. For example, if a dog with no prior history of aggression bites someone while restrained, the owner can still be held liable for the victim’s harm.
To successfully pursue a dog bite injury lawsuit, you typically need:
- Documentation of the attack, such as photos, videos, or witnesses;
- Records of your injuries and medical treatment; and
- Evidence identifying the owner responsible for the dog that bit you.
Don’t wait too long to take action. In Kentucky, in most cases, you have only one year after a dog bite to file a legal claim. Minors have more time because the statute of limitations does not run against a minor until they reach the age of majority. But don’t chance it. Delaying can mean losing your chance to recover compensation entirely.
How Long Does It Take for a Dog Bite Settlement?
The time to resolve a dog bite case in Kentucky can vary widely. Some cases settle in months, while others may take over a year to resolve. Some factors that can extend a claim’s timeline include:
- Severe injuries requiring long-term treatment,
- Owners who dispute responsibility,
- Uncooperative insurance companies,
- Lack of physical evidence, and
- Court schedules.
A legal professional can provide a more accurate estimate based on the specifics of your case.
McCoy & Sparks: Compassionate Advocates for Your Recovery
A dog bite can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars. At McCoy & Sparks, we are dedicated to helping victims of dog bites get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our team of award-winning attorneys understands Kentucky’s strict liability laws and has a proven track record of successfully handling dog bite cases. For nearly 30 years, we’ve fought tirelessly to help injured victims across Kentucky recover millions in just compensation for their suffering. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you.