Dog bite injuries are very common. In fact, over 1 million people in the U.S. are treated for injuries related to dog bites each year. Most of these visits involve treatment for common dog bite injuries such as cuts, gashes, puncture wounds, scratches, and damage to nerves, muscles or tendons. Another concern dog bite victims often raise is whether or not they should receive a rabies shot after being bitten by a dog.
While rabies has become rare due to vaccination efforts, there have been cases of rabid dogs reported. Generally, there is a quarantine and testing process to determine if the dog is infected with rabies. If you have been bitten by a dog, and the test is positive, you may require the shot. It is important to understand how rabies is contracted and to know the signs to look for if you think you may have been exposed to the disease. An experienced Newport dog bite lawyer can help evaluate your situation and may be able to file a Newport dog bite lawsuit on your behalf.
What Symptoms are Associated with Rabies?
If you have been bitten by a dog that may have rabies, it is important to monitor your symptoms. These symptoms can include flu-like symptoms such as fever, weakness, and headache. Generally, these symptoms will persist for several days and may even get worse with time. There may also be a prickling or itching sensation at the wound site. Other symptoms include anxiety, confusion, and agitation that can progress into delirium, insomnia abnormal behavior, and even hallucinations. Rabies progresses quickly and can be deadly, which is why it is so important to catch and treat the disease in the early stages.
What Should I do Right After a Dog Bite Injury?
It is important to seek medical attention right away after a dog bite. If your injuries are severe, you should head to the nearest emergency room. Even if your injury is minor, prompt treatment is important. Document everything you can about how the incident happened. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the incident occur. Take pictures of the scene of the incident and your injuries if you are able.
These steps will help ensure that your injuries are treated and help to support your account of how the dog bite injury happened. If you suspect that the dog that bit you may have been infected with rabies, report this to your doctor. There may be additional treatment steps that will be needed including a quarantine period for the dog. If your doctor determines that a rabies shot is needed, it is best to get the shot as soon as possible to avoid the dangerous effects of rabies.
Contact an Experienced Newport Dog Bite Lawyer Today!
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in the Newport area, contact one of our experienced Newport dog bite lawyers located at 1521 West Main Road, Middletown, RI. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering, among other benefits. There are no legal fees unless you receive an award or settlement. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us at 1-401-846-5449 or toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.
Source:
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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