Dog bites can be terrifying, and they most often result in long-term mental trauma and physical injuries.
It almost always comes as a surprise, leaving the victim unsure how to react or what to do. Dogs that have not been adequately trained or restrained by their owners are the most common perpetrators of these attacks.
Because dog bite cases can be complicated, hiring an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer right away is essential.
Liability in a Dog Bite Case in Florida
According to Florida Statute, “The owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is on or in a public place, or lawfully on or in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten..”
Like most states, Florida’s laws cover a wide range of circumstances when dogs attack. Understanding the law will play a key role in how your case is handled by an attorney and dealt with by a court and even law enforcement.
How can I know if I am eligible for compensation?
In most cases, the dog owner will be required to reimburse the victim of the attack, although there are some exemptions where the owner is not liable for their dog’s actions. Compensation covers the following:
- Medical Expenses
- Damaged Property
- Physical Pain and Suffering
- Lost Income
- Mental Trauma
While a dog bite may appear minor, it can have long-term consequences, necessitating costly medical treatment and negatively impacting the victim’s quality of life.
What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Dog Bite Case?
Florida’s statute of limitations allows four years from the date of the dog bite to file a claim. If a legal claim is not filed within those four years, the victim will lose their right to do so and will have no recourse against the dog owner.
What to do if a dog attacks you?
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Suppose a dog has attacked you. Dial 9-1-1 right away for emergency medical assistance. If the wound is bleeding, apply pressure to it as much as possible to prevent blood loss. Make a list of all injuries sustained during the attack so that doctors can treat you properly.
- Document the Attack.
It is crucial to identify the dog that bit you and acquire the necessary information from the dog’s owner after an attack. Photographs can also aid in the documentation of an attack.
- Contact the Police/Animal Services
Call the cops and request that they come to the crime scene to write a report. This will assist in the verification of the attack. You should also file a report with Animal Services to take the necessary administrative steps.
- Call a Personal Injury Attorney.
Insurance companies will do everything possible to keep the amount of money they have to pay a dog bite victim to a minimum. It is important to contact an experienced dog bite attorney for a free consultation.
Dog Bite Injuries That Can Earn You Compensation.
The following injuries are common among dog bite victims.
- Scarring
- Bone Fractures
- Infections
- Puncture Wounds
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Rabies
- Death
Talk to a Dog Bite Attorney
If you or somebody you know has been bitten by a dog, contact us immediately. We’ll review your case thoroughly and will help you determine how to proceed. Winston Law does not charge a fee unless we successfully recover compensation for your injuries.
