If a dog bites you while you are on your delivery route, prioritize your well-being above all else. Move to a safe location away from the animal and seek medical attention for any injuries, minor or severe. When possible, report the incident to the proper authorities and provide detailed documentation of what happened.
Because your injury occurred on the job, you may be eligible for a third-party claim on top of your personal injury case. Learn more today by speaking with an attorney. At Shamieh Law, we represent injured delivery workers and help them seek fair compensation for their damages.
What Should You Do Immediately if a Dog Bites You When You Are Making a Delivery?
If you are bitten by a dog while you are making a delivery, there are several steps to take:
- Move to a safe location away from the dog to prevent another attack.
- Seek medical care for all injuries, even if the wounds appear minor.
- Notify your employer or supervisor as soon as possible so they can document the incident.
- Photograph the bite, scratches, and any other visible injuries.
- Keep copies of your medical records and other documents related to the attack.
- Follow your provider’s treatment instructions and attend all recommended follow-up appointments.
Can You File a Workers’ Compensation Claim If a Dog Bites You at Work?
Workplace Dog Bites in Texas
Most private employers in Texas are not required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If your employer has coverage, you can qualify for medical and income benefits if the dog bite occurred within the course and scope of your employment. If your employer does not carry coverage, you may have other options based on how the attack occurred.
Workplace Dog Bites in Louisiana
Louisiana workers’ compensation will cover a dog bite that arises out of and occurs during your employment. State law will also hold a dog owner liable if the owner could have prevented the injury and the injured person did not provoke the dog.
Can You Hold the Dog Owner Liable for a Workplace Bite in a Third-Party Claim?
If the dog belongs to a customer, homeowner, or someone other than your employer, you might be able to file a third-party claim against the dog’s owner. Typically, you can file a premises liability or a personal injury claim alongside your workers’ compensation claim. However, an insurer will often seek repayment from any third-party recovery. Liability depends on state law and the facts of your case. These facts can include the owner’s knowledge, their control of the dog, and whether the worker provoked it.
When Is the Right Time To Speak With a Dog Bite Attorney?
Legal guidance is essential for dog bite cases involving severe injuries, extensive medical costs, infection, scarring, lost wages, or long-term impacts. A Dallas workplace attorney can analyze how the bite occurred, examine the evidence, and determine if a claim against another party is possible. At Shamieh Law, we take workplace dog-bite injuries seriously and do not hesitate to push back against unfair settlement offers.
Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer About Your Injury While Delivering
If you were bitten by a dog at work, contact Shamieh Law at 469-813-7332 to schedule a free consultation. During your visit, we will discuss what happened, understand your legal options, and explore which claims may be available. Our seasoned Texas injury attorneys are ready to represent dog-bite victims from start to finish.