Families should take a child’s dog bite seriously by getting appropriate medical care, reporting the incident, documenting what happened, and understanding their legal options. Even a bite that appears minor can cause infection, scarring, emotional distress, or other complications. 

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, has an estimated population of more than 218,000 people and covers about 110 square miles. The city manages 735 acres of parkland and has numerous neighborhood parks, trails, and natural areas, giving children plenty of opportunities to encounter dogs in public and recreational spaces.

Because children spend time in places such as Liberty Park, Sugar House Park, neighborhood parks, and the Jordan River trail system, an unexpected encounter with a dog can happen during everyday activities. After an incident, speaking with a Salt Lake City dog bite injury lawyer can help parents understand potential liability and their options for recovering damages.

This article highlights the key steps families should take after a child is bitten by a dog.

Fluffy black and white dog with snowflakes on its face

Get Medical Care Promptly

A child’s health should come first after a dog bite. Even a small puncture can introduce bacteria beneath the skin. More serious bites may damage muscles, nerves, or other tissue.

A medical professional can clean and evaluate the wound, determine whether additional treatment is necessary, and monitor for signs of infection. Medical records can also become important evidence if the family later pursues compensation.

Parents should follow medical instructions carefully and keep documentation of appointments, prescriptions, treatment costs, and related expenses.

Report the Dog Bite

Families should also report the incident to the appropriate local authorities. Salt Lake City’s municipal code requires a person who has been bitten by an animal to report the bite to Animal Services or the Salt Lake Valley Health Department within 24 hours.

Medical professionals who treat an animal bite also have reporting obligations. Reporting the incident can help authorities determine whether the dog has a history of aggression and whether it has current vaccinations.

Document What Happened

Evidence can become difficult to obtain as time passes. Parents should write down what happened while the details are fresh.

Useful information may include:

  • The date, time, and location of the incident
  • A description of the dog and its owner
  • Photographs of the child’s injuries
  • Names and contact information for witnesses
  • Photographs of the area where the bite occurred
  • Medical records and related expenses
  • Any communications with the dog’s owner or an insurance company

Parents should also keep photographs showing how the injury changes during the healing process, particularly when bruising, swelling, or scarring develops.

Understand Utah Dog Bite Liability

Utah law generally places responsibility on the person who owns or keeps a dog when the dog causes an injury. Under Utah Code ยง 18-1-1, the owner or keeper can be liable for an injury caused by the dog regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was vicious or mischievous, subject to statutory exceptions. 

This means a family may not necessarily have to prove that the dog had previously bitten someone or that the owner knew the animal was dangerous. The specific facts of the incident still matter, including where the bite occurred and the circumstances surrounding it.

Be Careful with Insurance Conversations

If the dog’s owner has homeowners or renters insurance, an insurer may contact the family after the incident. Parents should be cautious about providing statements or accepting a settlement before understanding the full extent of the child’s injuries.

Some injuries and symptoms may become clearer over time. A quick settlement may not account for future medical treatment, lasting scarring, or other consequences. Families can consider consulting an attorney before agreeing to a settlement or signing documents that could affect their legal rights.

Every dog bite case is different, so the potential outcome depends on the child’s injuries, available evidence, insurance coverage, and circumstances surrounding the incident.

Key Takeaways

  • Seek medical attention after a child is bitten, even if the wound initially appears minor.
  • Report the bite according to applicable local requirements.
  • Photograph injuries and preserve medical and incident records.
  • Collect information about the dog, owner, witnesses, and location.
  • Utah generally imposes liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dogs, subject to statutory exceptions.
  • Consider the child’s potential long-term physical and emotional effects, not just immediate medical expenses.
  • Speak with a qualified attorney before accepting a settlement if the child’s injuries are significant or liability is disputed.