You have to complete a route for your job, and part of doing that route is being out in public. You have to go to people’s homes, and that means that you’re exposed to their pets.
One of the biggest risks to those delivering packages or mail is that a dog will snap and cause a bite injury. Bites can quickly become infected, and depending on the incident, they may be severe enough to cause massive bleeding, tissue damage and worse.
Since you know that there are dogs that you may come into contact with, it’s important that you are always aware of your surroundings. If you see a strange dog approaching, don’t look at it in the eyes and keep your hands to your sides and away from the animal. Even if it’s a pet, it’s best to have the owner restrain it before you continue working.
What happens if you’re bitten by a dog on the job?
Interestingly, if you are bitten on the job, you have two potential routes for compensation. First, you have a right to workers’ compensation if the attack happens while you’re working. Second, the pet’s owner can be held liable as the party responsible for restraining and controlling their dog.
It’s important to let your employer know that you’ve been bitten by a dog and to seek medical care right away. That way, you can begin getting the treatment you need to recover. Your attorney can help you determine how to file a claim and if you should use workers’ compensation or file a personal injury lawsuit.