In many cases, yes. It’s always a good idea to report a dog bite to local authorities, especially when the bite causes an injury that requires medical treatment. Reporting a dog bite helps protect both the bite victim and the community by making sure the dog is evaluated for health risks and potential danger to others.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Maine or New Hampshire, it’s important to report the incident to animal control, your local police department, and/or the health department, depending on where the bite occurred. A Maine dog bite lawyer can also help you understand your legal rights and guide you through bite reporting and any potential claims for compensation.
Who do you report a dog bite to?
The process for filing a report may vary by city or county, but generally, dog bite victims should report the incident to one or more of the following authorities:
- Animal control: This is usually the primary agency responsible for handling dog bites and investigating whether the animal poses a risk to public safety.
- Local police or sheriff’s department: In some areas, law enforcement responds to animal bite reports and may assist with evidence collection.
- Health department: Some jurisdictions require bite reporting to monitor for public health concerns, such as rabies exposure.
Reporting is vital regardless of whether the dog is known or unknown. Even if the dog bite seems minor, it’s important to document it in case it results in any unforeseen complications.
Why is reporting a dog bite important?
There are a few reasons why dog bite incidents should be reported:
First, it helps ensure that the dog is evaluated for health risks, especially rabies or other infectious diseases. Authorities may require the dog owner to provide vaccination records or quarantine the animal for observation.
Second, bite reporting helps determine whether the dog is classified as a dangerous dog, particularly if the animal has a history of aggression. This may lead to restrictions on the dog or require the owner to take additional precautions.
Finally, having an official report creates a record of the event. If you need to seek medical treatment or pursue legal compensation for your injuries, this documentation can support your claim.
What happens after a dog bite is reported?
After you report a dog bite, authorities will typically investigate the incident. This may include interviewing the dog owner, inspecting the scene, and reviewing the dog’s vaccination history. If the dog is deemed a threat, animal control may impose restrictions or, in extreme cases, remove the animal.
The bite victim may also be contacted for follow-up, especially if medical care was needed. It’s a good idea to keep copies of any medical records and the incident report in case you pursue a claim for damages.
Are dog owners penalized when a bite is reported?
Not necessarily. The goal of bite reporting is primarily to protect public safety, not to punish dog owners, especially if this is the dog’s first incident. But, if the dog has a history of attacks or the owner failed to control the animal, they may face penalties or be required to take specific actions, like securing the dog or enrolling it in behavioral training.
Can reporting help with a legal claim?
Yes. If you decide to pursue legal action against the dog owner, such as a personal injury claim for medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering, an official report can be valuable evidence. It confirms the date, time, and details of the dog bite incident and can help demonstrate the dog’s behavior and the owner’s responsibility.
Even if you’re unsure about filing a claim, it’s still important to report a dog bite promptly to protect your rights and preserve evidence.
Need guidance after a dog bite?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may have questions about filing a report, your legal options, or how to recover damages for your injuries. The attorneys at Shaheen & Gordon help bite victims throughout New Hampshire and Maine understand their rights and take the next steps.We’re here to help you navigate the legal process with clarity and care. Call (800) 451-1002 or contact us online to learn how we can assist you. Initial consultations are free for personal injury cases.
