How to Handle a dog Attack

If you've been attacked by a dog you likely have medical bills you need covered and possibly lost wages from your injuries. The level of liability of the dog owner varies depending on local laws, but you need to act quickly if you want to prove the owner's negligence in court.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Contact a lawyer. If the dog owner was arrested, then the case is being handled by the district attorney. The judge could order the dog owner to compensate you for your injuries, but if you don't get the amount you need, you'll need to take the dog owner to civil court. Most injury lawyers only collect a fee if you win the case.
2. Request the dog's behavior be evaluated by a neutral third party. The dog should be tested to see if it responds aggressively in a situation similar to when the attack occurred. Don't simply accept the dog's veterinarian's opinion, although the vet should be called to testify if the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past.
3. Photograph and videotape the dog's evaluation. Your lawyer should put in a request for the testing to be recorded. These records are important for a jury to view.
4. Interview the dog owner's neighbors. Ask if the dog has shown signs of aggression in the past or often gets loose.
5. Examine the area the dog is usually kept. Again, your lawyer will likely have to file a request to do this. Signs of destruction, like a chewed or clawed fence, can indicate the dog was frustrated or often attempted to escape.
6. Remain calm during court proceedings. Remember the dog is likely a member of someone's family and these proceedings are difficult for the owner.

Tips & Warnings

• Some injury lawyers try only dog bite cases. These lawyers will be the most experience with the complexity of animal attacks and likely have animal behavior specialists they use as witnesses.