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Are you recovering from serious injuries after a dog attack? Knowing how to report a dog bite in California could aid your compensation process down the line. These are the steps you should take as you document and disclose the incident.
1. Seek a Full Medical Evaluation As Soon As Possible
While your first thought may be to fill out a dog bite report, instead, your primary order of business should be seeking medical attention. The attack likely left you with at least minor injuries. Visiting the emergency room or even your primary care provider can help you begin addressing injuries as soon as possible.
You may have an underlying condition that you do not initially notice because of the adrenaline of the attack. Your medical provider will also want to perform rabies testing to ensure the aggressive animal does not have the disease. Early treatment for rabies is critical; once signs or symptoms begin, the disease is fatal in over 99% of cases.
When you seek medical attention, you also receive valuable documentation about your injuries that you can use in a future personal injury claim.
2. Document the Event
Before you begin reporting a dog bite in California, be sure to document the details of the attack. This will make it easier to remember all the facts in your incident statement. It will also give you evidence if the animal’s owner tries to deny their role in your injuries.
The following documentation may prove valuable:
- Medical records
- Photos of your injuries
- A daily log of your symptoms and pain levels
- Witness statements from anyone who saw the incident
- Video footage of the attack, if available
3. Call Your Local Animal Control Agency
The California Department of Public Health has declared rabies to be a public health hazard in every county across the state. That’s why bite victims are encouraged to communicate attacks to local agencies.
Your first step should be to call your local animal control agency and inform them of the attack. They can tell you how to report a dog bite in California and any additional steps you may need to take.
4. File a Police Report
The animal control agency may advise you to file a police report as well. This is also a good idea if you plan to seek compensation from the dog’s owner.
California follows strict liability laws for dog bites. This means a pet’s owner is usually responsible for injuries caused by the animal, regardless of whether it has ever acted aggressively in the past. You may have the opportunity to seek compensation through a liability insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
A police report can prove valuable during your claim.
5. Notify Your Local Health Department
The animal control office may also ask you to notify your local public health department about the bite. This can help the department track the potential spread of rabies. They may want you to complete a rabies test at their office if you have not already done so through your primary care provider.
Our Attorneys Can Help You Report a Dog Bite in California
Now that you know how to report a dog bite in California, you can act quickly to document the attack and start pursuing compensation. If you have not already been tested for rabies, make this your number one priority. Then, contact our attorneys at The Law Office of Elliott Kanter for legal assistance.
Call us today at 619-231-1883 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.
