Three things to have ready
Keep these close so the attorney can move fast on your call.
- The date of the bite and where it happened. Name the state, since your state law sets your deadline and the rules that apply.
- The bite report. This is the report made to animal control or the police, if one was filed.
- Your ER papers, medical bills and photos. Tell the attorney what treatment you have had so far.
Don't want to wait for the attorney to call you? Call (844) 703-3920.
Your deadline is still running
Sending this form does not pause your filing deadline. Have the attorney check the exact date that applies to your claim.
Bring the date of the bite to your call. If a police, city or county dog bit you, say so right away.
A government-owned dog can bring a much shorter notice date. Ask the attorney to review your claim and notice dates.
A child's own deadline often waits until age 18. The parent's claim for the medical bills runs on the adult clock.
See the dog bite law rules for your state, or compare every state on our dog bite laws by state page. The dog bite statute of limitations page has more.
While you wait
The owner's insurer may call before you know whether the bite will scar. Say you will answer in writing later.
Do not sign a release or give a recorded statement yet. Keep the bite report, the bills and your photos together in one place.
Our guide on what to do after a dog bite has the full list.