Port Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer

Whilst in most cases, dogs are friendly and compassionate animals, in certain situations, they can become aggressive and bite, which can cause significant personal injury and damage. Whilst it is estimated that over 63 million households in the United States own at least one dog, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.7 million people suffer from a dog bite attack. Moreover, with increasing numbers of dog owners year on year, this number is only expected to rise.

There is no doubt that a dog bite resulting in personal injury and damage can be a traumatic and stressful experience. Fortunately, the Florida legal system has implemented dog bite laws intended to help victims of these kinds of attacks to receive the help, support, and monetary compensation they are entitled to.

At The Law Place, we have a team of highly skilled attorneys with over 75 years of combined experience between them. Our dog bite attorneys have dealt with many cases similar to yours. They will be there to support you throughout the legal process and will work alongside your case to ensure you receive any compensation you are deserving of. Our Port Charlotte offices are open around the clock, so you can call at any time of day, and rest assured someone will be on the other end of the phone. Call us today at (941) 444-4444, and arrange a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.

Florida Dog Bite Laws

Florida Statute 767.04 sets out the laws relating to dog bites in Florida and highlights that in the majority of cases, liability for a dog bite attack will fall to their owner. However, it is worthwhile highlighting that, as noted in Florida Statute 768.81, Florida is a comparative negligent state. In relation to a dog bite attack, this, therefore, means that if there was any negligence on your part that may have contributed to the likelihood of the dog bite attack, then the compensation you receive for any damages caused may be reduced.

Due to the complexities associated with the Florida legal system, it is strongly advised to seek the guidance of a reputable personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. A competent personal injury lawyer will fight on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you are deserving of. Contact The Law Place in Port Charlotte today to arrange a free consultation with a highly skilled personal injury lawyer.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Port Charlotte

Experiencing a dog bite can be traumatic and painful. The immediate aftermath might leave you in shock and unsure of the next steps. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Port Charlotte, it’s vital to take appropriate measures to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s a guide on what to do:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

The primary concern after any injury should be your health. Even if the dog bite appears minor, it’s crucial to see a medical professional. Dog bites can lead to infections, and prompt treatment can prevent complications. Rabies is a potential concern, and if the dog’s vaccination history is unknown, you might require post-exposure prophylaxis.

Document the Incident

As soon as you’re able, write down details about the incident. This includes the location, date, time, and circumstances of the bite. If there were any witnesses, gather their contact information. Photographic evidence of the injuries can also be beneficial.

Identify the Dog and Its Owner

Determine who the dog owner is and gather their contact information. This will be crucial if you decide to pursue legal action or need to verify the dog’s vaccination history. If the dog is a stray, inform local animal control so they can handle the situation and potentially prevent further incidents.

Report the Incident

Contact the local animal control agency or police to report the dog bite. This step is essential, as it creates an official record of the incident and ensures that appropriate measures are taken, especially if the dog is a repeat offender.

Consult with a Port Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer

Navigating the legal landscape after a dog bite can be daunting. An experienced dog bite lawyer can advise you on the potential for a claim, what compensation might be available, and how best to proceed.

Preserve Evidence and Track Medical Treatments

Keep any clothing damaged in the attack without washing it, as it may serve as evidence. Also, document all medical treatments, medications, and therapies you undergo due to the bite. Maintain a diary of your recovery process, noting pain levels, mental health impacts, and any limitations you experience.

Avoid Negotiating Directly with the Dog Owner

While it might be tempting to resolve the issue without formal proceedings, be cautious. Engaging in direct negotiations without understanding the full extent of your rights or the damages you’re entitled to can lead to a suboptimal resolution. Allow your attorney to handle discussions on your behalf.

Being prepared and knowing the steps to take after a dog bite in Port Charlotte can help ensure your safety, health, and legal rights are prioritized.

Common Injuries Sustained From a Dog Bite Attack in Port Charlotte, FL.

Depending on the size of the dog and the severity of the attack, dog bite injuries can range from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries sustained by Florida dog bite victims are:

• Bite or teeth marks.
• Scratches.
• Cuts and lacerations.
• Bruises and abrasions.
• Permanent scarring.
• Soft tissue injuries.
• Broken or fractured bones.
• Permanent damages.
• Pain and suffering.
• Wrongful death.

Whilst some dog bite injuries may seem minor, they are particularly susceptible to infection if not treated efficiently. In particular, this can lead to a serious bacterial infection, such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Pasteurella. Therefore, it is vital to seek medical assistance following a dog bite, no matter how minor the injuries may appear.

Here at The Law Place, we understand the huge financial impact medical bills can have. By seeking representation from a dog bite attorney, they will work to ensure you receive compensation that covers the cost of these medical bills and expenses. Contact our law firm in Port Charlotte today to receive valuable and comprehensive legal advice from a personal injury attorney.

What Damages Can I Claim Following a Dog Bite Attack in FL Port Charlotte?

Victims of dog bite attacks not only have to deal with the emotional distress and trauma following the attack but they are also often left with large medical bills and financial losses. By enlisting the help of a personal injury attorney, they will work to establish the negligent party, and therefore the party liable to pay for damages. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the dog bite attack, your personal injury lawyer may look to claim on your behalf for any of the following damages:

• Medical bills – This includes any medical bills from the past, present, and future, as well as any costs incurred traveling to and from those medical appointments.
• Lost wages or lost income – If the injuries from the dog bite attack have been so severe that it has prevented you from going back to work, then you may be able to claim compensation from any lost wages from the past, present, and future.
• Pain and suffering – If you have suffered emotional distress and trauma following the dog bite attack, or you have been left unable to do something you enjoyed prior to the attack, then you may be able to claim compensation. Pain and suffering are typically difficult to prove, so it is strongly recommended to seek advice from a personal injury lawyer following the attack.
• Wrongful death – If you have lost a loved one as a result of a dog bite attack, then you may be able to claim damages that cover funeral costs, as well as their lost wages, companionship, and also for loss of consortium.

At The Law Place, we understand how stressful and traumatic a dog bite attack can be and how no amount of money can fix the injuries sustained. However, our attorneys will do their utmost to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We will fight to ensure justice is served.

Port Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer, FAQ

How much is a dog bite settlement in Florida?

Settlement amounts for dog bites vary widely based on the severity of the injury, the circumstances of the attack, and other factors. Minor bites may settle for a few thousand dollars, while severe cases, especially if they involve a serious injury or significant scarring, could reach into the tens or hundreds of thousands.

Can I sue for a dog bite in Florida?

Yes, Florida law allows victims of dog bites to seek compensation from the dog owner. The state follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning that the dog owner can be held liable regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression before.

How much money can I get from a dog bite?

The compensation received from a dog bite claim depends on various factors, including the extent of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, medical treatment costs, lost wages, and other damages. A Port Charlotte dog bite lawyer can help assess your specific situation to estimate potential compensation.

How to negotiate a dog bite settlement?

Negotiating a dog bite settlement requires understanding the full extent of your damages, gathering all necessary documentation, and effectively communicating with the dog owner’s insurance company. It is highly recommended to have an experienced dog bite lawyer guide you through this process to ensure a fair settlement.

What kind of injuries can result from a dog attack?

Dog attacks can cause a range of injuries from minor scratches and bruises to severe damages like deep lacerations, broken bones, and even spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. In extreme cases, a dog attack could result in wrongful death, necessitating the involvement of wrongful death attorneys.

What should I do if I’m bitten by a dog on someone else’s property?

If you are bitten by a dog on someone else’s property, seek medical attention immediately. Report the incident to local authorities and document your injuries and the scene as best as possible. Contacting a Port Charlotte dog bite lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you on the next steps.

Can I get compensation for emotional trauma after a dog bite?

Yes, victims of dog bites can seek compensation for both physical and emotional damages. This can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and potential therapy costs related to trauma from the incident.

Are dog owners always liable for dog bites in Florida?

While Florida follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, there are exceptions. If the victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property, provoked the dog, or was negligent in a way that contributed to the attack, the dog owner’s liability might be reduced.

What if the dog bite happened while I was working?

If you were bitten by a dog while performing job-related duties, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. You may also have a personal injury claim against the dog owner. A lawyer can help determine the best course of action.

Do I need a lawyer if the dog owner has offered to pay my medical bills?

Even if the dog owner has offered to cover your medical expenses, consulting with a lawyer is advisable. This ensures that all potential damages, including future medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, are adequately addressed. A dog bite lawyer can help secure comprehensive compensation, ensuring all your needs are covered.

Contact The Law Place in Port Charlotte, Florida

If you have been a victim of a dog bite attack in Port Charlotte, then it is strongly advised to seek legal advice from a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the incident, as you may be entitled to compensation. At The Law Place, we have an experienced team of attorneys with over 75 years of combined experience between them. A personal injury lawyer will assess the intricacies of your case and offer comprehensive and valuable feedback on the next best steps to take.

By seeking help from an accident lawyer, they will work to assess what damages you may be able to claim and will do their best to ensure you receive the compensation you are deserving of. Our law firm understands how daunting facing the Florida legal system can be, which is why our attorneys will be there to support and guide you every step of the way. We pride ourselves on developing trusting and open attorney-client relationships built on transparency, so you can rest assured that your case will be in competent and knowledgeable hands.

It is worthwhile mentioning that at our law firm, all our attorneys work on a contingency basis, which is regulated by the State Bar Association who set limits on how much attorneys can charge for their work. This also means that we will only deduct the cost of our legal fees once a settlement has been won and received by the client. This means that there are no upfront costs, and therefore if you are unfortunate to lose your case, then you won’t owe us a single penny.

Contact our Port Charlotte offices today. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at (941) 444-4444, and arrange a free consultation with an adept accident attorney today.