The dog days of summer have arrived, and New Jersey residents are enjoying the remaining few weeks of fun in the sun. Sometimes, an unexpected illness or injury can happen when a victim least expects it, and in the case of dog bite injuries, knowing what to do in an emergency can be crucial. There are important steps to take right away to help prevent infection, the chief concern for most dog bite injury cases.
Annually, there are almost five million dog bites reported nationwide. Experts estimate that over half of these victims are children under 10 years of age. Being bitten by a dog can be a terrifying experience for a person of any age, and some victims may never fully recover. Physical and emotional injuries can be made even more serious if a dog bite gets infected.
A victim should clean the bite as soon as possible. Warm soapy water can help kill germs. If a bite is bleeding, pressure can be applied with a clean bandage or cloth. Wraps and antibiotic cream may reduce the risk of infection. A victim should seek emergency medical care if redness, swelling or other concerning symptoms develop.
Victims may also want to document important details about their dog bite injuries. If a New Jersey victim can identify the party responsible for a dog, he or she may have legal recourse. An experienced attorney can help a client seek compensation for injuries, physical pain and mental suffering in a court of law. Dog bite injuries are often serious, and and attorney can assist a client through all steps of the civil process.