Dog bites are not just painful; they can also pose serious health risks. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for several reasons. Our friends from Joseph Law Group, LLC explain why medical attention after a dog bite injury is essential and how these injuries can have serious complications. They also touch on how your medical records are important evidence for your attorney to build your case.
Reasons To Get Medical Care After A Dog Bite
There are several reasons to get medical care after being bitten by a dog, and not just so that your dog bite injury lawyer can build a stronger case:
1. Preventing Serious Infections
Dog bites can introduce bacteria from the dog’s mouth into the wound. Common bacteria found in dog bites include Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus. If left untreated, these bacteria can lead to serious infections like cellulitis or even more severe conditions like septicemia. Immediate medical attention helps to clean the wound properly, reduce the risk of infection, and ensure that appropriate antibiotics are received if necessary.
2. Assessing the Risk of Rabies
Rabies is a potentially fatal viral infection that can be transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. Although rabies is rare in domestic dogs in the U.S., it’s still a serious concern. A healthcare professional will evaluate the risk based on the dog’s vaccination status and behavior. If there’s any doubt, they may recommend a series of rabies vaccinations as a precaution.
3. Addressing Tetanus Concerns
Tetanus is another risk associated with dog bites, especially if the wound is deep and the dog’s vaccination history is unknown. Tetanus is caused by a toxin from a bacterium that can enter through puncture wounds or deep cuts. If you haven’t had a tetanus booster shot in the last ten years, or if your vaccination status is uncertain, a healthcare provider may recommend a booster to prevent tetanus.
4. Documenting Injuries for Legal Purposes
Prompt medical care is not just about your health; it’s also important for legal reasons. In personal injury cases involving dog bites, medical documentation serves as crucial evidence. Records of your injuries, treatment received, and any complications can support your claim for damages. This documentation helps establish the severity of the injuries and the impact on your life, which is vital for obtaining fair compensation.
5. Establishing a Timeline of Events
Seeking medical attention immediately helps establish a clear timeline of when the bite occurred and when you first sought treatment. This timeline is essential for corroborating your account of the incident and can be pivotal in legal proceedings. Defense attorneys can use delayed medical treatment to argue that your injuries were not as severe as claimed or that they may have worsened due to neglect.
Moving Forward After Being Bitten By A Dog
Immediate medical attention after a dog bite is crucial for preventing infections, addressing rabies and tetanus risks, ensuring proper wound care, and supporting your legal claim. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, don’t delay in seeking medical help. Your health and your legal rights depend on it.
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