Many people expect to handle the aftermath of a dog bite incident privately. Frequently, they administer first aid at home without seeking professional support. They may even attempt to handle financial matters privately with the dog’s owner.
While that may be an admirable idea, it may leave the injured person at a disadvantage. Obtaining full compensation for the costs generated by a dog bite incident can be very difficult, especially if people fail to consider the long-term implications of their injuries. The total costs generated by a dog bite incident can go far beyond what people might initially expect.
What losses do dog bites generate?
Some people try to handle dog bite injuries on their own, only to later require professional medical intervention. The tapered shape of a dog’s tooth might mean that the injured person develops a serious infection after the incident.
The injuries caused by the dog bite might require medical attention. Dog bite wounds can cause disfiguring scars in some cases. Injuries where the dog tears flesh can cause nerve damage. If the dog knocks the person to the ground during the attack, broken bones and brain injuries could also be possible.
People may incur tens of thousands of dollars in care costs treating those injuries. The more serious the injuries are, the more likely the affected person is to miss work because of their injuries. If the victim is a child, then a parent may need to miss work to care for the child and transport them to medical appointments.
Frequently, dog bite incidents can lead to compensation from insurance companies if people follow the correct procedures. Reviewing the circumstances surrounding a dog bite attack with a skilled legal team can help people explore their options. An insurance claim or lawsuit can potentially help people recoup the cost of a dog bite injury.