The holiday season is all about getting together with family in Oklahoma City. And while it’s a festive time, there’s also things you might not think about–like being bitten by a dog at one of these gatherings. Ylla Gosney, Attorneys at Law can help you through this difficult situation and make sure you’re able to recover. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Would a Dog Bite Happen at a Family Holiday Gathering?
Despite the fact that you’re familiar with your surroundings at a family gathering during the holidays, it doesn’t mean it’s not stressful for the family dogs. Unfortunately, even though it’s probable that these dogs know everyone and are used to their surroundings, a dog bite can happen in the chaos of the festivities. Here’s a few examples of why this happens:
- Too many people – Dogs can feel overwhelmed or anxious with unfamiliar faces and loud noises around.
- Excited kids – Children might pull on a dog’s tail, pet too roughly, or invade their space, which could cause the dog to react defensively.
- Food placement – Dogs may become territorial or protective over food scraps, especially if someone tries to take it away.
- Disrupted routines – A holiday gathering can throw off a dog’s regular schedule, leading to stress or irritability.
- Limited supervision – Owners may be busy hosting and not paying attention to their dog’s behavior or interactions with guests.
By keeping the dog in a calm area, supervising interactions, and teaching children how to approach dogs, a tough situation might be avoided. You have to also be prepared, though.
What Should You Do If You’re Bitten by a Dog at a Family Holiday Gathering in Oklahoma City?
A dog bite at a family holiday gathering can be emotionally tricky, but it’s important to handle the situation carefully to make the process smoother for everyone involved. Here’s what you can do if there’s a dog bite during a holiday gathering:
- Stay respectful – Talk openly and respectfully with your family members. Let them know that filing a claim is about covering medical costs and other expenses, not about placing blame.
- Get insurance information – Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bite injuries. Work with your family member to report the incident to their insurance company,
which can reduce financial strain on them. - Document everything – Take photos of your injuries, keep records of medical treatments, and note any workdays you miss. Proper documentation will speed up the claims process.
- Be understanding – Recognize that dog bites can create tension, especially during the holidays. Focus on your recovery rather than trying to blame someone.
Even if you’re familiar with the dog, a crowded gathering can stress out even the calmest pets. It’s uncomfortable, but you must consider your options to protect your health and finances.
What Options Do You Have After a Dog Bite?
Getting bitten by a dog at a family event is emotionally tough, but Oklahoma’s “strict liability” dog bite law means your family member is responsible for your injuries. To recover damages, you typically file a claim with their homeowners’ insurance or, in some cases, you might have to file a lawsuit.
While it’s not easy to consider legal steps against a family member, serious injuries can result in large medical bills and financial losses–requiring something to be done. When you file a claim, you can potentially recover:
- Medical expenses
- Ongoing care costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Repair/replacement costs for damaged clothing or other property
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Costs relating to the negative impacts on the family relationship
In Oklahoma, you have two years from the date of the bite to file a claim. Remember, though, most dog bite claims are settled through homeowners’ insurance. This means that your family member won’t have to pay you directly, which might make things easier. Still, our team is ready to help you through this situation, working for a result that works for everyone in your family.
Legal Help After a Dog Bite at a Holiday Gathering in Oklahoma City
A dog bite at a family holiday gathering can be painful and stressful. At Ylla Gosney, our Oklahoma City dog bite lawyers are here to help. We’ll handle your claim with care to protect family relationships while making sure you get the financial support you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.
