When a dog bites, it’s often a reaction to something. Sometimes, they might attack out of fear or nip when they’re excited. But what if it’s someone else’s dog and its teeth graze or pinch your skin? Does that justify legal action?
Pursuing a personal injury lawsuit can take time and money, which not everyone can afford. If the bite did not draw blood or does not seem serious, is it safe to brush it off? While any dog bite can be upsetting, not all bites may be worth pursuing a lawsuit for.
Assess the bite
Before making a decision, consider the severity of the bite. Dog bites fall under different levels:
- Level 1: No skin contact.
- Level 2: Teeth touch but do not break the skin.
- Level 3: The bite results in one to four shallow puncture wounds.
- Level 4: One to four deep punctures from a single bite.
- Level 5: Multiple bites, including deep puncture wounds.
A dog bite that did not break the skin or is not bleeding may not seem like a big deal but do not be quick to dismiss it. Even surface-level bites can lead to complications.
Dogs carry bacteria in their saliva that can cause serious infections for humans, particularly, individuals with compromised immune systems. If the dog is unvaccinated for rabies, the virus can be transmitted even without biting.
You may be able to manage minor dog bites, such as those from levels 1 to 3, at home. However, it’s crucial to wash the wound thoroughly and monitor it for signs of infection for at least 24 hours.
Lookout for signs of infection
Minor bites can cause some redness, swelling, pain, or inflammation, which typically subside after a few hours. However, consider seeking immediate medical treatment if these symptoms persist after a day or if you notice:
- pus or discharge from the wound
- numbness around the area
- appearance of red streaks
- fever or chills
- difficulty breathing
Moreover, do not delay a visit to the doctor if you have a weakened immune system, the bleeding does not stop, the dog is a stray, or you do not have a copy of the dog’s vaccination records, regardless of the bite size.
The findings from your visit could help you determine whether to pursue legal action for your injury. Any compensation you potentially secure could help cover medical treatment costs and other related damages.
Consult an attorney
If you are still unsure about your situation, a personal injury attorney can help you determine if you have a case. It is always safer to err on the side of caution for injuries related to animal bites, even small ones.