Sustaining a dog bite injury can be a traumatic experience for the victim, no matter the circumstances. Injuries sustained from the average dog bite can be severe, and these injuries can take years to fully recover from. Not only can dog bites cause serious bodily injury, but they can also have a seriously detrimental effect on the victim’s mental wellbeing. This is because dog bite victims often suffer from anxiety, stress, and depression as a result of a serious dog bite injury.
If you have been the victim of a dog attack and have sustained injuries after being bitten by a dog in Florida, call The Law Place today. Canine attacks are not as rare as one may think, and the fault can sometimes lie with negligent or abusive dog owners.
With over 75 years of combined experience in personal injury law, including dog bite claims, our personal injury lawyers have the experience necessary to get the compensation that you deserve after your attack. The expenses that usually follow a dog bite case are often very costly, so seeking compensation to cover these costs is very important.
At our law firm, we believe victims of dog bite injuries deserve to receive maximum compensation while they recover from their usually devastating injuries and stress caused by the incident.
Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week, so call us when you want. Contact us at (941) 444-4444 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your dog bite claim.
A man tries to fend off an aggressive dog.
How Much Is the Average Dog Bite Settlement?
As is the case with most personal injury claims, it is difficult to say a specific amount of compensation that you may be entitled to receive without knowing the exact circumstances surrounding your dog bite claim. In other words, each personal injury case is different, and so the amount that a claimant could receive is determined on a case-by-case basis. According to The Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, over 4.5 million dog bite incidents occur every year in the US. The final settlement awarded for those who decided to make a personal injury claim following their dog bite will differ per case. The amount of compensation that one could receive from these cases can depend on the following factors:
- The severity of the injuries.
- The medical treatment necessary to treat the injury.
- The losses of income the victim suffered due to the accident.
- The psychological trauma suffered as a result of the attack.
During your free case evaluation, one of our personal injury attorneys will be able to calculate how much you could be owed as a result of the damages you have sustained from your dog bite claim. Call our law firm today to find out how much money you could get for your accident.
How Is a Dog Bite Claim Settled?
Determining how much an individual should receive in compensation for the damages sustained after a dog bite can be difficult. Normally, the average dog bite settlement is agreed upon between the insurance companies and the parties involved in the incident. An amount is determined based on how much the claimant is believed to have received if the case went to court.
With dog bite cases, it is essential that your claim is strong enough to be disputed in court if necessary. Insurance companies are often reluctant to pay out large sums of money for personal injury cases, and it is easier for them to dispute liability in a dog bite case. Only if it is very clear that the dog owner was responsible for the dog bite will an insurance company award a claimant with compensation. As Florida is a strict liability state, a dog owner can be held liable for a dog bite even if the dog had previously shown no aggressive behavior before the incident occurred.
Receiving the maximum amount of compensation for your Florida dog bite case is dependent on hiring experienced legal representation. At The Law Place, we know how to prove liability in dog bite cases, so insurance companies cannot dispute it. Your insurance company may try to reduce the final settlement for your claim by holding you liable for the incident or by arguing that medical treatment you received for the dog bite was not necessary. Our attorneys know how these companies work, but we work even harder to ensure that they are unsuccessful in disputing your claim.
We’re here to serve you. Our phones are open 24 hours a day. When Should I Sue for a Dog Bite Injury?
After suffering from a dog attack, victims are often reluctant to hire legal representation and seek compensation quickly. This is mostly due to the fact that dog bites and other dog-related injuries can cause great mental anguish and emotional distress. Therefore, victims are understandably hesitant to take legal action while recovering.
It’s important to note that victims of dog bite injuries have two years from the date the incident occurred to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to make a claim within this timeframe could mean you are risking your chances of receiving compensation.
Although victims of dog bites have up to two years to file a dog bite lawsuit, we highly recommend that claimants get in contact with a legal representative and file a lawsuit as soon as possible. This is because the evidence, including proof of medical expenses incurred and doctor’s records, can go missing quickly, and the memories of eyewitnesses can fade over time. In other words, a claimant is more likely to receive compensation for their dog bite case if they file their claim soon after the incident occurred.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience What Should I Do if I’ve Been Bitten By a Dog?
First and foremost, we recommend calling the police soon after a dog attack. The police can take control of the situation and prevent a further attack from occurring if the dog or the dog’s owner is aggressive. Having the police at the scene of the incident can also help strengthen your claim as police reports can be used as evidence against dog owners. Also, police can take the necessary contact details of the dog owner, which can help speed up the legal process when getting in contact with insurance companies.
If you have sustained a dog bite injury, it is important to have your injuries seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. A doctor can treat the dog bite wounds and prevent potential infection from occurring. Seeking medical attention quickly is incredibly important, especially if the victim of the dog bite is a child, as infections in younger people can sometimes be deadly without necessary treatment. Also, doctor’s records can be used as evidence of your dog bite injuries which can strengthen your case. As a precaution, we recommend victims of these incidents keep their distance from the dog owner and their pet after a dog bite, even if the injured person is familiar with them or doesn’t feel threatened.
Lastly, once you have received medical attention from a healthcare professional and have informed the police of the incident, we highly recommend seeking legal representation. Getting the best compensation possible in a dog bite lawsuit is only possible with the best legal team fighting your corner. Call The Law Place today for a free review of your case and find out how much money you may be entitled to.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers. Damages That Can Be Claimed After Sustaining a Dog Bite Injury
In addition to suffering physically and mentally from a dog bite injury, it is likely that your finances have also been negatively affected due to the incident. Our attorneys have ample experience in handling personal injury lawsuits and will quickly be able to determine which damages you may be able to claim for your specific case. Damages you could be able to claim after a dog bite injury include:
- Medical Bills – After sustaining a dog bite injury, it is likely that you have received medical care to treat them. Medical bills are usually very expensive as treatments, including physical therapy, can cost thousands of dollars. An attorney can recover these medical expenses.
- Lost Wages – Sustaining injuries from a dog bite can leave victims unable to work and therefore earn money to cover essentials, including rent and bills. In order to recover lost wages, a lawyer must be able to hold the dog owner liable for the incident. Once liability is established and proven, you may be able to recover past, present, and future lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering – Unfortunately, pain and suffering are a common occurrence for victims of dog bites. If you have suffered from physical injuries or emotional trauma as a result of a dog bite, you could claim compensation.
Being involved in a dog attack can be emotionally, physically, and financially devastating. However, by winning compensation for your case, a personal injury lawyer can help you cover medical costs, losses of income, and other expenses you may have incurred as a result of the incident. These expenses can cause huge stress for victims, so we know that covering them is essential. Call The Law Place today for a free consultation and discuss your case with an experienced Florida lawyer.
Defenses to Dog Bite Claims
In order to receive compensation for a dog bite case, a dog owner must be held liable for the incident. However, in order to avoid paying out large settlements to claimants, an insurance company may try to dispute a dog bite claim. An insurance company may use the following as defenses to a dog bite claim:
- Trespassing – If the claimant was on the dog owner’s property without permission at the time of the incident, they might not be held liable for the dog bite.
- Comparative Negligence – It may be determined that the claimant was partly responsible for the dog bite, and therefore, their final settlement may be reduced due to this.
- Posting a “Beware of Dog” Sign – A dog owner may not be held liable for a dog bite if a “Beware of Dog” sign or a sign that reads something similar was clearly visible for those entering the property.
Insurance companies will try to reduce or eliminate the liability of dog owners in dog bite claims. A personal injury lawyer can challenge these attempts made by the insurance company in order to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How The Law Place Can Help After You Have Suffered a Dog Bite
Suffering from a dog bite can be a traumatic experience, leading to significant physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. The Law Place is here to help you navigate the complexities of a dog bite claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
When you contact The Law Place, our team of dedicated attorneys will begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your case. We will gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, photographs of the injuries, witness statements, and any available reports on the dog’s history. This thorough investigation is crucial for building a strong case against the dog owner and establishing their liability under Florida’s dangerous dog statute.
Our attorneys understand the intricate details of Florida’s dog bite laws and the nuances of dog owner’s liability. We will utilize this knowledge to hold the negligent party accountable for your injuries. Whether it involves negotiating with insurance companies or taking the case to court, we are prepared to fight vigorously on your behalf.
Medical expenses, including treatments such as plastic surgery, can be overwhelming. We will work to ensure that all your medical bills are covered, both current and future, as well as any other associated costs like lost wages and pain and suffering. Our goal is to secure a dog bite settlement payout that fully compensates you for all your losses.
The negotiation process with insurance companies can be daunting, especially when you are dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite. The Law Place attorneys are skilled negotiators who will handle all communications with the insurance companies, striving to reach a fair settlement that reflects the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not have to worry about upfront legal fees. Our payment is contingent upon winning your case, ensuring that you can focus on your recovery without the stress of legal costs.
Choosing The Law Place means partnering with a compassionate and committed legal team that will be with you every step of the way. We will provide the support and advocacy you need to navigate your dog bite claim and achieve a successful outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you move forward.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Dog Bite Injury Claim in Florida? FAQ
What factors influence dog bite settlements in Florida?
Dog bite settlements in Florida are influenced by several factors, including the severity of the injuries, the need for medical treatment such as plastic surgery, the circumstances of the dog bite incident, and the dog owner’s liability. Additionally, the breed of the dog, such as a pit bull, and the specifics of the insurance coverage can impact the settlement amount.
What is the average Florida dog bite settlement payout?
The average settlement for a dog bite injury claim in Florida varies widely depending on the case’s specifics. However, typical dog bite settlement amounts range from $30,000 to $50,000. More severe cases requiring extensive medical treatment or resulting in long-term injuries can lead to higher settlements.
How is the dog owner’s liability determined?
Dog owner’s liability in Florida is often determined based on the state’s dangerous dog statute and whether the owner was negligent in controlling their dog. If it can be proven that the dog owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the dog from biting, they may be held liable for the injuries sustained by the dog bite victim.
What role does insurance coverage play in dog bite settlements?
Insurance coverage significantly impacts dog bite settlement payouts. Homeowner’s insurance policies typically cover dog bite incidents, but the coverage limits and the specifics of the policy can affect the final settlement amount. It’s essential to understand the insurance coverage available when pursuing a claim.
Can the breed of the dog affect the settlement negotiations?
Yes, the breed of the dog, such as a pit bull, can affect settlement negotiations. Certain breeds may be considered more dangerous, which can influence the perceived liability and the potential compensation. However, each case is unique, and settlements are based on the specific facts and evidence presented.
How are settlement negotiations conducted in dog bite cases?
Settlement negotiations in dog bite cases involve discussions between the dog bite victim’s attorney and the insurance company representing the dog owner. The goal is to reach a fair settlement that covers all the victim’s expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future treatment needs.
What potential compensation can a dog bite victim expect?
A dog bite victim can expect potential compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, plastic surgery, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future costs related to the injury. The total compensation amount will depend on the case’s specifics and the extent of the injuries sustained.
How can The Law Place help with a dog bite settlement in Florida?
The Law Place has extensive experience handling dog bite settlements in Florida. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gather necessary evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement. We understand the complexities of dog bite incidents and will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Law Place Today
As a result of a dog bite, you may have suffered from emotional trauma, costly expenses, including medical costs to cover, and physical pain and suffering. By trusting in our legal team at The Law Place, you may be able to receive a large dog bite settlement. If compensation is available for your case, you can rest assured that our legal team won’t stop until we’ve won it for you.
Dogs are usually well-behaved and loveable animals. However, if you have suffered at the hands of a dog bite, you are likely entitled to compensation. Luckily, at The Law Place, we know and understand Florida law and have extensive experience in handling personal injury cases, so you can be confident that we’ll fight to get the compensation you may be entitled to.
Our phone lines are always open! Call us at (941) 444-4444 for a free consultation with a top attorney at our law firm and find out how much compensation you may be entitled to.
