Dogs can be loyal, our best companions and fun to have in the household, but accidents happen. You may be meeting a friend at the park, only for their dog to act aggressively and bite your leg. It’s common to feel confused in this situation, as you may be unsure if you should report the bite. In the state of Oregon, it is required to file a report within 24 hours if you’re bitten by a dog.
How To Report a Dog Bite
After the bite occurs, you have a full day to report the incident to your county’s Health Department. Only the victim can file the report, but if the victim is a minor, their parent or guardian can file on their behalf. When reporting the situation, describe the scenario and the dog in as much detail as possible. Identifying this is ideal. Clean the wound thoroughly, as one bite can become infected when ignored.
Why Reporting Dog Bites Is Crucial
Many individuals in Oregon believe dog bites are minor incidents without real blame to be assessed. However, the reality is that dog bites can be incredibly painful and lead to severe health consequences. In addition to the physical pain, some people may develop emotional trauma, which can be challenging to live with. Whether someone sustains a small or deep bite, they may have to deal with large medical bills as a result. If you’re a dog bite victim, you have a duty to hold the owner responsible for what happened, no matter the situation.
We Can Help
Our Shlesinger & de Villeneuve Attorneys, P.C. team has helped many clients file dog bite claims across Oregon. Dog bites often go unreported, as people believe the problem is nothing to worry about or don’t want to get the dog “in trouble”. However, it would be best if you didn’t have to deal with hefty medical costs due to another party’s actions. You have limited time to file a claim, but we can help. Contact us today to learn more.
