While some dog bite injuries might seem minor, did you know that up to 15% of those bites can become infected? This report by the American Academy of Pediatrics is a significant number, especially considering that there are around 4.5 million dog bites every year in the US. Unfortunately, a dog bite can get seriously infected if unchecked by medical professionals and untreated.
At The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc., our San Francisco dog bite attorneys advise those who suffer dog bites to be aware of signs of infections. This can help you pursue proper medical treatment. Then, seek a free consultation with our team about your legal rights.
Signs a Dog Bite May Be Infected
When it comes to dog bites in San Francisco, it’s important to be vigilant about potential signs of infection. These signs may mean the dog bite wound is not healing properly, and medical attention is required. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:
Swelling
If you notice that the area around the dog bite is swollen, it could be a sign of an infection. Swelling occurs as a result of the body’s immune response to fight off bacteria introduced by the dog’s teeth.
Redness
An infected dog bite may exhibit redness in and around the wound. This happens because the body increases blood flow to the area to deliver immune cells, causing redness and inflammation.
Warmth
Another sign to be wary of is increased warmth around the dog bite. Infection can cause the local temperature to rise as a result of inflammation and increased blood flow to the wound.
Persistent Pain Beyond 24 Hours
While some pain and discomfort are expected after a dog bite, it could indicate an infection if the pain worsens or remains intense beyond 24 hours. This is because the body’s inflammatory response can amplify pain sensations in the infected area.
Drainage From the Wound
If you observe discharge coming from the wound, it could mean the dog bite is infected. This drainage may range from clear or cloudy to thick, yellowish, or even bloody in severe cases. It signifies the presence of infection-fighting cells and debris.
What Next After Dog Bite?
Following a dog bite incident, “What Next?” is an important question. Here are the two key steps that could help ensure your safety and legal protection:
Seek Medical Attention
Dog bites can be the cause of serious injuries, and even minor bites can pose a risk of infection. According to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH), these infections can lead to amputations, surgeries and sometimes death.
Therefore, it’s essential to seek medical attention after a dog bite. A medical evaluation will help identify the severity of the wound, rule out the possibility of infection, and determine whether prophylactic antibiotics or tetanus shot is required.
Additionally, seeking medical attention establishes an official record of the incident, which comes in handy if you decide to pursue legal action.
Inform Your Attorney
As a dog bite victim, you can often pursue recovery through a personal injury lawsuit against the dog’s owner’s home or renter’s insurance. California adopts a strict liability law, which makes the process straightforward in many situations. Most cases end up with the dog owner paying for your losses and injuries.
Your dog bite attorney can assist in gathering and preserving evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, interviewing witnesses, and filing a lawsuit if necessary. They will also advise you on whether you have a strong case, how to prove the dog owner’s liability, and what damages to seek.
Contact a California Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you suspect an infection following a dog bite, we can help. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping bite victims fight for their rights. A California dog bite lawyer will advocate for your rights as you focus on recovering. Call us today at (415) 851-6486 to schedule a consultation with our award-winning legal team.
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