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Understanding Florida's Dog Bite Laws
Florida's dog bite laws are designed to protect victims. The state has a strict liability statute; this means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog even if they did not know the animal was vicious. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:
- Trespassing: If the victim was trespassing on the dog owner's property at the time of the bite.
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog.
Under these circumstances, the owner's liability may be reduced or eliminated.
The defendant may try to argue that one of these exceptions applies to your claim, but the law is nuanced. Simply petting a dog does not constitute provocation. Nor does being on a property necessarily constitute trespassing. For example, a delivery driver has implied permission to enter a property to deliver an order.
During your free consultation, we can explain whether you have a strong case under Florida’s strict liability laws for dog bites.
Types of Dog Bite Injuries We Handle
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe.
Lacerations and Puncture Wounds
These are the most common types of dog bite injuries. A dog’s teeth can penetrate the skin deeply, and even seemingly minor wounds can require extensive medical care. Financial compensation through a dog bite claim can help you access appropriate medical treatment, including plastic surgery for scarring.
Infections
Bacteria and other pathogens can enter a wound, leading to a serious infection that can spread throughout the body. Dog bite infections may require hospitalization, powerful antibiotic regimens, and even surgery.
Nerve Damage
Severe dog bites can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of function in the affected area. Nerve damage can have long-term consequences, and we will fight to get you the compensation you need for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
Scarring and Disfigurement
Dog bites can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement that require plastic surgery or other corrective procedures. We understand the emotional distress caused by these injuries, especially in cases of facial scarring. We will fight for compensation that both covers the costs of treatment and the emotional impact of an altered appearance.
Emotional Distress
A dog attack can lead to anxiety, new phobias, nightmares, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other psychological conditions. We can help you seek compensation for the emotional trauma you have endured
Daily News
By CASEY LOGAN
A jury awarded a Mossy Head man $160,000 in damages Thursday after finding a White-Wilson Medical Center surgeon negligent in his duties.
An Okaloosa County man was recently awarded a $320,219 verdict after he sued an insurance company following an injury he blamed on a traffic accident.
One of the largest personal injury awards in Bay County history was decided for an elderly man who said an unlicensed, underaged car wash employee backed into his bicycle.
What Makes Michles & Booth Different?
Discover what sets Michles & Booth apart and why brain injury victims regularly turn to us to help them seek compensation for their injuries:
Compassionate and Personalized Legal Guidance
We understand the sensitive nature of brain injury cases and provide personalized attention, empathy, and compassionate support to our clients and their families.
Board-Certified Attorneys
Our team includes board-certified attorneys with specific knowledge and experience in handling complex brain injury cases. This ensures you receive the highest caliber of legal representation.
A Proven Track Record of Success
We are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for every client. We have helped numerous brain injury victims secure the financial compensation they need for medical care, rehabilitation, lost income, and other losses.
A Full Range of Legal Services
We handle all aspects of your brain injury case, including conducting an initial investigation, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, filing a lawsuit, and representing you at trial if necessary. We will be by your side throughout the entire process, providing support and guidance every step of the way.
Convenient Locations Across Northwest Florida
It can be difficult to travel when you are dealing with injuries. To better serve our clients, we have four offices across Northwest Florida: Pensacola, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, and Tampa.
An In-House Team of Experts
We have a full-time investigator and medical doctor on staff, allowing us to better serve you with thorough case preparation and cost-effective representation.
