Stepping into a stranger’s home to view real estate can already feel nerve-wracking. The last thing you expect is to be bitten by an aggressive dog on the property. But dog bites can and do happen, even during real estate showings. If you or a loved one is unfortunately bitten by a dog while viewing a home for sale in Kansas, it’s crucial to know the proper steps to take next. A dog bite can lead to serious injuries and expenses down the road if it is not handled correctly from the start. This article will cover the essential actions you should take following a dog bite during a real estate showing in Kansas.
Contact Emergency Services If Needed
If the dog bite is severe and has resulted in serious injuries or bleeding that cannot be controlled, call 911 immediately. Emergency responders can provide first aid, stop bleeding, and transport you to the nearest emergency room for additional treatment. Even if the bite does not appear serious at first, it’s wise to seek medical attention to prevent potential infections.
Exchange Contact and Insurance Information
If the bite is not life-threatening, exchange contact and insurance information with the dog’s owner. Get their name, address, phone number, and insurance details. Having this information is crucial for holding the owner liable for your injuries and medical bills. The owner is responsible for controlling their dog and can be found negligent if the dog bit you unprovoked.
Document the Incident
Take pictures of your injuries from multiple angles as evidence. Also, photograph the scene of the incident, the dog, and any blood or tears on your clothing. Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the bite occur. Their accounts of the attack will be valuable when filing your claim. Write down the details of the incident while it’s still fresh in your mind.
Seek Medical Treatment
Even if the bite was minor, you should still see a doctor. Dog bites often appear small at first but can become severely infected. Seek treatment at your doctor or local urgent care to properly clean and dress the wound. Ask the doctor to document your visit and injuries in your medical records for your claim. Keep records of all treatment notes and expenses related to the bite.
Call Animal Control
Contact your local animal control department and file a bite report. An animal control officer will initiate an investigation, follow up with the owner, verify the dog’s vaccination records, and determine if the dog poses any ongoing risks. The owner may be cited for allowing the dog to bite.
Hire an Attorney
Contact an experienced dog bite attorney immediately after the incident. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, correspond with insurance companies, establish liability, and pursue maximum compensation for your damages. Strict time limits apply for filing dog bite claims in Kansas so it is essential to act quickly.
File a Claim with the Owner’s Insurance
Your attorney will help you file a claim with the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance. This can cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If the owner refuses to provide insurance details, your lawyer can help track down this information.
Sue the Dog Owner
If insurance fails to adequately compensate you, your attorney can file a dog bite lawsuit against the owner. This legal action forces the owner to compensate you for damages and also serves to prevent future incidents by holding irresponsible dog owners liable. Several strict liability laws apply in dog bite cases.
Recover Damages
With proper legal guidance, you can recover full compensation for your injuries, medical treatment, lost income, scarring, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma stemming from the bite. An attorney maximizes your financial recovery throughout the claims process.
Don’t Suffer in Silence
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Kansas or anywhere in the U.S., you do not have to suffer silently. The dog bite attorneys at Monge & Associates have years of experience helping injured victims recover the maximum compensation they deserve after a dog attack. Contact us today at (888) 477-0597 for a free consultation if you have been bitten by a dog at a home showing or anywhere else. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Kansas, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, our dedicated legal team will fight to protect your rights and hold the irresponsible dog owner accountable. You deserve justice.