You get a phone call finding out that your dog has bitten someone. Or maybe you were outside and witnessed this occurrence yourself. What do you do now? It’s hard to imagine your faithful companion sinking his or her teeth into somebody’s flesh, but it can happen. No matter how well trained a dog, if she has been provoked she may bite someone.
Here’s some information on what to do – and what not to do – if you learn that your has dog bit someone.
Just After it Happens
Despite how tempting it is, do not argue or confront the victim. That only opens you up for more accusations and incrimination. Something that may never have gone to a lawyer’s office could turn into a nasty battle if you decide to fight with the victim.
First, make sure the victim gets medical attention right away and offer to pay for any and all medical expenses. Give your name and contact information because, in certain states, failure to do so is considered a crime.
Again, keep your mouth shut — sorry to be harsh, but in the heat of the moment, it’s easy to get carried away. Don’t talk about your dog’s demeanor and don’t say anything, especially if this isn’t the first time your dog has bitten someone.
Also, make sure to take steps to protect other people from your dog until things can be worked out.
Insurance
If you’re a homeowner, your insurance may cover the damages from the dog bite. There are some jurisdictions that permit “one free bite.” What that means is that, for a dog who has no history of biting, this incident won’t be the accident that causes you to have to put your dog down.
If the bite drew blood, you have a bad feeling about the entire situation altogether or you hear from a police officer, always make sure to contact your insurance company.
Contacting a Lawyer
While, generally, you will want to refrain from making any statements about the incident at hand, if you’re questioned by your insurance company or you hire a lawyer to defend you, always be honest and forthright about the incident. This is particularly important if you know your dog has bitten someone in the past. Lawyers do not want be surprised at trial or even at a settlement conference.
Afterward
In the days and weeks after the dog bite, you will want to protect humans from your dog. Have your dog wear a soft muzzle when off the property, keep him or her in a kennel if they are outside and you’re not home and make sure to follow all animal control laws to the letter.
If the victim contacts you and there are no lawyers involved, always be kind and considerate. Show concern without admitting liability.
If you’re sued and have either renters or homeowners insurance, contact your insurance company and they will select a lawyer to represent you. If you don’t have either pieces of insurance, hire a lawyer to help you.
If you get a letter from an attorney prior to the filing of suit, make sure to reply to it. Ignoring it will get you subpoenaed. Give this attorney information about your insurance coverage but do not talk about your dog or the incident.
Because your dog has now bitten someone, he may be seen as a dangerous animal. This is something you’re just going to have to live with because both his position and yours have legally changed in society at large because of that bite.
Photo Credit: istockphoto.com
