Imagine riding along peacefully when out of nowhere you are confronted by a snapping, snarling canine. This scenario is one that California bicyclists encounter all too frequently. Knowing what to do if you experience a dog bite can help you avoid tragedy, which is why you should keep the following advice in mind.
Consider the Situation
Dogs often sneak up behind you while you are riding. If you suddenly look back to discover a dog chasing you, your best bet is to try and outrun it. Give a squirt with your water bottle to try and slow the canine down.
There may be times when outrunning a dog just isn’t possible. Maybe there is too much traffic ahead or you are going uphill. In those cases, the last thing you want is for the dog to be able to catch you. Thus, get off of your bicycle and place it in between yourself and the advancing dog. Remember that accident victims have a duty to mitigate damages under law. Protecting yourself with your bicycle is one way to sustain as few injuries as possible.
When a Dog Advances
Fighting an advancing dog is practically useless, and will only spur on the animal’s aggression. Instead, you should roll up into a ball with your face to the ground. Place your hands over top of your ears and lie as still as possible. This will hopefully mitigate the attack so you suffer as few injuries as possible. Then, after the attack is over, seek medical attention right away even if your injuries are very minor.
Injured While Riding? Contact Us
Dog bites account for a good number of cycling accidents each year. Whether you have been bitten or an attacking dog has contributed to an accident, you could have a legal remedy available under law.
Once you have sought medical attention, gather as much information as possible about the attack. Write down a description of the dog, the events that happened, and take pictures if possible. Gather the names and addresses of any witnesses so that you can later ask them for a statement. After doing these things, please contact us for a free assessment of your case.
