Victims of dog bites should always seek medical care immediately. After doing so, you may need to report the dog bite. In California, you are required by law to report any dog bite from a domestic animal. Here is how to report a dog bite in California to ensure you meet the legal requirements. Also, be sure to discuss your case with a San Diego dog bite lawyer.
Contact Your Local Animal Control Officer
Though state and city rules differ somewhat, in most cities, you will need to contact the local animal control officer to file a report. This allows the officer to visit the dog’s home to determine what occurred and gather additional information.
The police department or animal control officer will then:
- Collect all the information you have about the incident
- Help you to complete a police report to document what occurred
- Investigate the dog bite incident to determine if there was any violation of local ordinances
- Contact the dog owner to gather information about the dog and its health
- Issue a citation if deemed appropriate in the incident
In some situations, the animal control officer may require that the dog is quarantined for a period of 10 days. This process enables them to gather information on the dog’s health to ensure there is no risk to your health.
Contact the Local Health Department
If you are concerned about your health for any reason, visit your doctor and get care. Then, contact the local health department to report what occurred. They will assist in gathering information about the dog’s health, including its vaccination records. If necessary, they will provide you with insight into whether you need to take any steps to prevent infection.
Monitor Your Health and Document Your Injuries
Be sure to follow up with your doctor about any medical care you may need. Take the time off work you need to, according to your doctor’s recommendations. This is also a good time to start documenting what happened to you. That includes monitoring your health over the coming days to ensure you do not become ill.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney in California
In cases of serious injury and loss, it becomes necessary to file a claim for the losses you have incurred through the dog owner’s insurance policy. However, this can be complicated, and numerous factors can limit your overall success in getting the compensation owed. For this reason, we encourage you to contact a dog bite lawyer in California.
Your lawyer will gather information about what happened and compile all relevant police reports and documentation of the incident. In cases where you have serious injuries, your lawyer will document those injuries and all implications and consequences you have as a result of them. That includes all documentation of medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your lawyer will build a claim, negotiate with the insurance company, and help you recover fair compensation.
Seek Legal Guidance to Learn How to Report a Dog Bite in California
If the dog’s owner fails to provide you with their contact information or you have any concerns throughout the process, set up a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case. It is very common for dog bite victims not to realize the seriousness of their injuries and losses, but seeking legal guidance can be critical.