Common Mistakes After a Dog Attack

Dog bite victims often have serious injuries, emotional scars and may have long-term needs based on their injuries. In New York State, victims of a dog bite incident have the right to recover compensation from negligent dog owners. However, they often make mistakes that can affect their case.

Understanding what to do...and what not to do...following an encounter with an aggressive dog can make a big difference in preserving evidence, proving liability, and protecting your legal rights.

A dog bite attorney can help with financial recovery after a dog bite attack and ensure that victims get the compensation they deserve. They can also share insight on common mistakes after a truck accident.

Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention When Bitten by a Dog

One of the most common mistakes after a dog attack is not getting immediate medical care following a dog bite. Even if a dog bite seems minor, the dog's saliva can cause infections. Many times, dog bits cause deep lacerations, scarring of the skin, and an overall traumatic experience.

Seeking medical attention quickly not only protects the health of a victim, but it also creates an official medical record that will link the injuries with the attack. Without documentation, insurance adjusters may argue that the injuries were caused by another incident.

When you seek medical attention immediately, such as heading to the emergency room, you are also showing that the injuries are as serious as you claim they are.

Not Reporting the Attack or Dog Bite

Another major mistake that people make following a dog bite is not reporting it. On Long Island, victims should contact the local police department if they are bitten by a dog. This report will note that the incident occurred, it will identify the dog and pet owners, and create a record of the attack.

If local authorities find that there is a history of aggressive behavior, this report will definitely serve as very important evidence. Without it, proving that a dog is dangerous or that the owner has been negligent, might be difficult.

Not Identifying the Dog and Its Owner

In the confusion following a dog attack, some victims will leave the scene without finding our the identity of the dog or the owner. This is crucial, though, as you will need their names to report the incident to police/animal control and to start pursuing a lawsuit.

If the dog is loose or not with their owner, neighbors might be able to identify the dog or owner, too. By having this information, you can share it with an attorney and get the justice you deserve. They can also be helpful with advise on common mistakes after a bike accident.

Neglecting to Document the Scene and Injuries

Documenting the scene and the injuries is also important. Victims of a dog bite should take photos/videos of the following:

• The injuries immediately after the attack and throughout the healing process

• The location of the attack

• The dog, if possible, and any identifying tags or markings

• Torn or bloodied clothing

• Property damage such as ripped items or damaged belongings

Witness statements can also be valuable. Collecting the names and contact details of anyone who saw the attack is also important, as they can corroborate your story.

Speaking to the Dog Owner’s Insurance Company

It's very common for the insurance company of the dog owner to reach out to the victim following a dog bite. Though they will do their best to sound helpful and sound like they have your best interest in mind, they will, instead, do their best to reduce the amount of money they have to pay out in a lawsuit.

On top of this, if you are injured and the insurance company calls, they might also try to trick you into admitting fault. For instance, if you say..."I stepped onto the yard to pet the dog," they can say that you were the one trespassing and the dog was protecting its property and owner.

It is always best to never speak to the insurance company without first speaking to your attorney. A Long Island dog bite law firm may be able to help.

Accepting a Quick Settlement

The injuries a person gets from a dog bite can affect them for many years to come. This is especially true for injuries like nerve damage or psychological trauma like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unfortuantely, many victims accept an early settlement offer from the dog owner's insurance company, but then realize it doesn't cover their full medical bills, things like reconstructive surgery, or emotional scars.

When a settlement is signed, the case is closed, and additional compensation can't be pursued later. Before accepting an offer, victims should talk to an attorney who can take a look and offer advice.

Not Keeping Evidence or Records

A successful dog bite claim depends on detailed records. Failing to preserve medical records, receipts, or correspondence with the dog owner or insurance company can make proving damages difficult.

Victims should maintain:

• All medical bills and doctor’s notes

• Records of missed work or lost income

• Photos of injuries over time

• Communication logs with insurance representatives or the dog owner

• Receipts for medications, therapy, or psychological counseling

Keeping an organized record demonstrates the true extent of the financial and emotional impact of the attack.

Posting About the Attack on Social Media

Social media activity can unintentionally damage a personal injury claim. Posting photos, comments, or updates about the attack or recovery may allow the insurance company to misinterpret or twist the content. Even a simple statement like “feeling better” could be used to argue that injuries are less severe than claimed.

Until the case is resolved, it is best for victims to avoid discussing the incident online or sharing any details about ongoing legal proceedings.

Waiting Too Long to Contact an Attorney

New York law gives victims a limited amount of time to file a personal injury claim. Delaying legal action can result in lost evidence, fading witness memories, or missed deadlines under the statute of limitations.

Consulting a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible allows the attorney to:

• Conduct an investigation before evidence disappears

• Communicate directly with insurers

• Identify any previous incidents involving the same dog

• Determine the full extent of damages

The attorneys at The Law Office of Carl Maltese have years of experience handling dog bite and animal attack cases on Long Island. They understand the nuances of New York’s dog bite laws and the tactics insurance companies use to reduce payouts.