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Dog Bite Lawyer
Dogs are the most beloved pets among Americans. In fact, statistics reveal that approximately 602 million Americans own a dog. While dogs are undoubtedly cuddly, adorable, and often referred to as man’s best friend, they can also display aggression, particularly when they feel threatened. Alarmingly, around 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year.
A dog bite can be not only frightening but also significantly damaging. If you’ve experienced a dog bite, our dog bite lawyer can help you navigate your rights and available options.
Injuries from a Dog Attack
If a dog attacks, the injuries may be serious. This is true whether the dog merely knocks a person down, takes a bite, or viciously bites multiple times. Potential injuries from a dog bite include:
- Bone fractures
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
- Psychological harm, including post-traumatic stress disorder
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (if a person hit their head while falling)
Sometimes, a dog bite can cause long-term scarring or disability. In the most severe of cases, a dog attack can even be fatal.
Liability for a Dog Bite in Florida
Florida statute is clear about a dog owner’s liability for harm caused to another person, with Section 767.04 of the 2018 Florida Statutes reading that the owner of any dog who bites another is liable for all damages suffered by the bitten person, regardless of whether or not the owner of the dog knew the dog to be dangerous if:
- The person was in a public place; or
- Was lawfully on private property.
The statute also reads that any negligence on the part of the dog bite victim can reduce the liability of the dog owner. For example, if you were teasing the dog at the time you were attacked, you may be found to be 40 percent negligent, and therefore your damages award would be reduced in proportion to your degree of negligence.
What to Do after a Dog Bite
If you have been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take certain steps as soon as possible both for the sake of your health and to preserve your right to file a claim. We recommend:
Reach Out to Our Dog Bite Lawyers Today
At Douglas & Douglas law office, our dog bite attorneys understand the emotional and physical toll that a dog attack can inflict. If you're dealing with medical bills and injuries stemming from a dog bite incident, reach out to our attorneys today to discover how we can assist you in pursuing a damage claim against the dog's owner. Our team operates on a contingency fee basis, and we provide free consultations. With a wealth of experience, we are a trustworthy team of lawyers dedicated to supporting you.