What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury in The Woodlands

Below, we provide a comprehensive guide on what to do after a dog bite injury, outlining essential steps to take for a swift recovery and minimizing the risk of infection or other complications. For questions or a free consultation with our personal injury team, call us at (832) 592-1108.

Dog Bites in Texas

According to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services, nearly five million people across the United States experience dog bites each year. Of those, an estimated 800,000 bites are serious enough to warrant emergency medical care.

Here in Texas, the statistics are equally as alarming. Consider the following:

• Between 2005 and 2013, there were 34 dog bite fatalities in Texas.
• Harris County, and Houston in particular, is ranked as the top county in the state for dog bite injuries affecting Postal workers.
• The majority of serious dog bite injuries and fatalities occur to young children or older adults.
• In Texas, a small percentage (18%) of fatal dog bite cases between 2005 and 2013 resulted in criminal charges against the owner.

What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury

There are more than 53 million dogs living among humans in the U.S. As much as we love our four-legged friends, the reality is that any dog can bite – anyone, anytime, anywhere. It is important to know what steps to take after a dog bite injury to protect yourself and your legal rights. Here are our recommendations:

Assess the Severity of the Injury

The first step after a dog bite is to assess the severity of the injury. If the bite is minor and doesn't break the skin, it may only require basic first aid. However, if the bite is deep, bleeding profusely, or involves torn flesh, immediate medical attention is necessary. In such cases, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room for prompt treatment.

Once the severity of the dog bite is determined, it's vital to clean the wound thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection. Gently wash the area with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or hydrogen peroxide, as they can damage the tissue and impede healing. After cleansing, pat the wound dry with a clean cloth and cover it with a sterile bandage or dressing.

Seek Medical Attention

Regardless of the severity of the dog bite, it's advisable to seek medical attention. Even minor bites can lead to complications if not properly treated. A healthcare professional will evaluate the wound, assess the risk of infection, and provide appropriate medical care. They may administer a tetanus shot, prescribe antibiotics, or recommend further tests if necessary.

Gather Information

After receiving initial medical treatment, gather information about the dog and its owner. Note down the dog's breed, size, and any visible markings. Obtain the owner's contact information and inquire about the dog's vaccination history. This information will be crucial for your healthcare provider, as well as animal control authorities, if required.

Document the Incident

Keeping thorough documentation of the dog bite incident is crucial for potential legal proceedings or insurance claims. Take photographs of the wound immediately after the incident and throughout the healing process. Maintain a detailed record of all medical treatments, prescriptions, and related expenses. If there were any witnesses, collect their contact information as well.

Report the Incident

Reporting the dog bite incident is essential to ensure public safety and prevent future incidents. Contact your local animal control or health department to report the incident. Provide them with all the necessary details, including your account of the event, the dog owner's information, and any supporting evidence, such as photographs of the injury or the dog.

• Click here to report a dog bite in Houston and Harris County
• Click here to report a dog bite in Montgomery County

Consider Legal Action

In some cases, seeking legal advice may be necessary, particularly if the dog bite results in significant medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional distress. Consult with a personal injury lawyer specializing in dog bite cases to understand your rights and legal options. A lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim and help you seek compensation for your damages.

How Can a Dog Bite Lawyer Help after an Injury?

A dog bite lawyer can be an invaluable resource if you have suffered an injury from a dog bite. At Wham & Rogers, our expertise in dog bite laws and personal injury cases can significantly assist you in navigating the legal process and maximizing your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Here are some ways that our dog bite lawyers can help you after an injury:

• Legal Knowledge and Experience: Our dog bite lawyers specialize in personal injury cases related to dog bites. We have in-depth knowledge of the relevant laws and regulations governing dog bite incidents in Texas.
• Determining Liability: Determining liability in a dog bite case in Texas can be complex. Texas observes a “one bite rule” for dog bite cases. That means you have the burden of proving that the dog’s owner knew, or should have known, that their dog had the propensity to be aggressive, or the potential to bite. 
• Gathering Evidence: Our lawyers will assist you in gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim. This may include medical records, photographs of your injuries, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation. We will also obtain the dog owner's information, vaccination records, and any prior history of aggressive behavior by the dog.
• Insurance Negotiations: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they may try to minimize their liability or offer inadequate compensation. Our lawyers will handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Representing You in Court: If your case proceeds to litigation, our lawyers will represent you in court. We will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.

In Texas, having a dog bite lawyer on your side is crucial to protecting your rights, pursuing justice, and helping ensure that dangerous animals cannot bite again. By enlisting the help of a lawyer, you can also significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and related damages.

Get a Free Dog Bite Consultation

If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog in Harris or Montgomery Counties, Wham & Rogers want to help. We are experienced personal injury lawyers with extensive experience obtaining justice and compensation for our clients.

Get a free dog bite consultation with our lawyers in The Woodlands by calling us at  (832) 592-1108, or fill out our online form to reach us online. We are here to support you and get you the best results possible for a full recovery.