When you are bitten by a dog, it can be traumatic. It often happens suddenly and without warning. When you are bitten by a dog, it should be taken seriously. It is fundamentally no different than being in a car accident or getting hit by a car while walking or riding your bike. A dog bite is a personal injury that may entitle you to compensation. The following are a few things you should know.

What to do during the attack 
If you are attacked by a loose dog, do what you can to fight off the dog. Making loud noises may help scare the dog, and it will help attract the attention of others. They may be able to help. If you are with someone they may be able to help as well, but if you are alone, try to remain calm. Dogs seldom sustain their attack. Once the dog backs away, try to get behind something, so it will be difficult to bite a second time. A tree, a fir hydrate or even a car can help. Anything that offers a barrier to the dog. If the dog was on a leash, the owner should be able to pull the dog away, but this is not always possible if the dog is large.

Seek medical attention 
Your bite may not be bad enough to warrant a 911 call, but you still need to see a doctor. This is especially important for bites on the limbs. Whether it is your arms, hands, and feet, these types of bites may require a few stitches. After it heals, you may find that you have an injury that has restricted your movements and requires physical rehabilitation. Even if long-term injuries are not apparent, it is important that you have a record of seeing a doctor after the attack. Often problems with the hands, legs and feet do not manifest themselves immediately. If possible get contact information the names of witnesses and especially information about the owner of the dog.

Phoenix has strict laws 
The laws regarding an owner’s responsibility when a dog attacks and bites someone are clear. Phoenix and other cities in Arizona have some of the strictest dog laws regarding dog attacks. What this means to you is that you have a better chance of getting compensation for your injury than you might in other jurisdictions.

After you have sought medical attention and have gathered as much information about the dog and its owner as possible, you need to contact a personal injury attorney. Beside medical expenses, you may be entitled to other types of compensation Even small dog bites on your hands can lead to difficulty in making a living.