North Carolina Police Dog Makes Mistake Bite

February 04, 2011 4:16 PM Wade Allen The Gaston Gazette recently reported an incident in which an 18 year old woman was bitten by a German Shepherd police dog as she left the Gastonia Police Department. A police officer had let the dog loose in a grassy area. The woman sustained a bite wound to her right calf and knee abrasions. She was taken to the hospital by ambulance for treatment. Unfortunately, dog bites do occur. This was a dog that was well-trained and was regarded as being good with people. Perhaps something scared him. No one will ever know for certain why the animal bit this woman. If you or a member of your family were bitten by a dog, would you know what to do? The lady in Gastonia was taken to the hospital for treatment. Immediate medical treatment is imperative. The wounds need to be cleaned and dressed. Antibiotics may be called for. In severe cases, the wounds may need stitches. Your second step should be to call an attorney who specializes in dog bite claims. An aggressive, experienced dog bite lawyer will conduct an investigation. Do you know who owns the dog? Do they own a home that may be covered by homeowners’ insurance? These are important questions and they need answers. In the case of a police dog, local laws may require special notice within a short period of time to the police department that you are making a claim. Emergency rooms are expensive. Perhaps you will need to consult with a plastic surgeon for scarring. You might even need scar revision surgery. Your personal injury lawyer will work to get your medical bills paid. If you lose time from work, your attorney will fight to get your lost wages. Your lawyer will make a claim for pain and suffering and will work to get you every penny to which you are entitled. I have been practicing law for over 30 years. During that time, I have had the great privilege of working with some of the finest lawyers in the country. If you have been bitten by a dog, I invite you to fill out an online consultation form here on my website. It is quick, easy and there is no charge for the consultation. If you would prefer, please feel free to call me at 1-800-603-6833. I look forward to hearing from you.