While people think of dogs as small, cute animals, it is important to realize that they can be dangerous and vicious as well. If you are the victim of a dog bite, you should contact an attorney so that you can be fully aware of your options and possibilities.
A Dog Bite in Los Angeles
A recent story from an ABC news affiliate in Los Angeles describes an incident involving dogs. A mother and her 8-year-old daughter were visiting a Santa Monica triplex at approximately 8 p.m. The police stated that when the young girl stepped outside her apartment, pit bulls jumped on her. The officers stated that she received puncture wounds and dog bites to the left shoulder, left calf, buttocks, and left foot. The injuries were apparently quite painful, even though they were not life-threatening. The police stated that the dogs had torn part of the flesh off the young lady and her injuries required her to receive a large amount of stitches. Animal control eventually removed the animals from the property. While the police investigation has so far shown no evidence of criminal conduct, it is noteworthy that a neighbor said that she had been worried that the pit bulls might injure somebody for years, that the dogs are dangerous, and that she and others were unsurprised by the attack. This is why she had always been aware of the dogs when they were nearby.
What You Should Know if a Dog Bites You
Whether or not the dog owners are culpable for the actions of the pit bulls, here are some things that you should know if you or a loved one is a victim of a dog bite.
If a dog bites you, you should see a doctor immediately to take care of your injuries and make sure that you are okay. You should also contact a lawyer to help you with your possible claims, and you should not discuss the attack with an insurance company or the dog owner because there is a possibility that either party will attempt to use your words against you in a trial, or as leverage so that you accept a lesser settlement.
You should also try to obtain as much information as possible regarding the dog, the owner, and the attack. This is particularly true if you are attacked in a public space in which you may not be able to easily interact with the owner. Contacting Animal Control and alerting them that there is a potentially dangerous animal in the vicinity is also important.
Contact an Attorney
If you are the victim of a dog bite, you should contact the Appel Law Firm LLP. We have a strong reputation in aiding victims of dog bite injuries and will assist you in getting the compensation that you may deserve.
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