If a dog bit you, you may be dealing with more than just physical injuries. Dog bites can cause lasting pain, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical expenses. When someone else’s dog causes you harm, you have the right to seek compensation. You do not have to handle this situation alone. A qualified Coral Gables dog bite lawyer can help you understand your options and work toward the financial recovery you need.
Dog bite claims can get messy when insurance companies step in. Their goal is usually to pay as little as possible, which can leave victims stuck with medical bills and other expenses. The team at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia has experience handling dog bite claims in Coral Gables and the surrounding areas. We can help you gather evidence, build a strong case, and fight for a fair settlement. Call 305-845-4470 to schedule a consultation today.
Dog Bite Cases Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia Handles
Dog bite incidents can look different from one situation to the next. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we’ve handled all kinds of cases, including:
- Severe Dog Bite Injuries – Dog bites can cause deep lacerations, nerve damage, and even permanent disfigurement. In severe cases, victims may require surgeries, skin grafts, or physical therapy. If you or a loved one has suffered significant injuries due to a dog attack, we can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Child Dog Bite Cases – Children are particularly vulnerable to dog bites due to their size and natural curiosity. Unfortunately, dog bites often result in severe facial injuries that require extensive medical care. Our team understands these incidents’ emotional toll on families, and we work tirelessly to hold negligent dog owners accountable.
- Dog Bites Resulting in Infections – Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, causing infections like cellulitis or, in rare cases, rabies. If an infection leads to prolonged hospital stays or long-term complications, we can help you seek damages for your medical treatment, lost wages, emotional distress, and other related costs that may arise.
- Emotional Trauma and PTSD from Dog Attacks – The psychological effects of a dog bite can be as damaging as the physical injuries. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a fear of animals. We work with mental health professionals to demonstrate how the attack has impacted your life and include these damages in your claim.
- Fatal Dog Attacks and Wrongful Death Claims – In tragic cases where a dog attack results in death, surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. We provide compassionate support and legal guidance to help families seek justice for their loved ones and recover compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, emotional suffering, and other losses.
Dog Bite Statistics You Should Know
Dog bites are more common than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in five people bitten by a dog requires medical attention. Additionally, during a recent 10-year period, a total of 468 deaths from being bitten or struck by a dog occurred in the United States, an average of 43 deaths per year.
Florida consistently ranks among the top states for dog bite-related insurance claims. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that Florida had the second-highest number of dog bite claims nationwide in one recent year, with 1,532 reported incidents.
How We Would Handle Your Dog Bite Case
At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we take a thorough and strategic approach to dog bite claims. Here’s what you can expect when you work with our team:
- Free Initial Consultation – We’ll sit down with you to discuss your case, review the details, and explain your legal options.
- Investigation and Evidence Collection – We gather critical evidence, such as medical records, photographs of injuries, witness statements, and any available video footage.
- Identify the Liable Party – Florida law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal’s past behavior. We’ll identify the responsible party and build a case that clearly demonstrates their liability.
- Calculate Losses – Our team will calculate the full extent of your losses, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and any permanent disfigurement.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies – We handle all communication with the insurance company, pushing back against lowball offers and fighting for a fair settlement.
- Prepare for Trial if Necessary – While most dog bite cases settle out of court, we are always prepared to present a strong case before a judge and jury if needed.
Our goal is to handle every aspect of your dog bite case with care and professionalism so you can focus on your recovery while we work toward the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Bite Cases
Do you have questions about your dog bite claim? Here are some answers to the most common questions we hear:
How much is my dog bite claim worth?
The value of your claim depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, emotional distress, and any long-term effects. Lost wages and future medical needs may also impact the claim’s worth. Our team can review your case, explain your options, and help you estimate its value.
Why should I seek compensation after a dog bite?
Dog bites can lead to significant financial burdens, including hospital bills, ongoing medical care, and lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working. Seeking compensation can help you recover these costs, address emotional distress, and hold the dog owner accountable, which may also help prevent similar incidents in the future.
What if the dog owner is a friend or family member?
Many dog bite victims personally know the dog owner, which can make pursuing a claim feel uncomfortable. Fortunately, most claims are filed against the dog owner’s homeowners’ insurance policy rather than the individual directly. We handle these cases with care, discretion, and sensitivity to help preserve relationships whenever possible.
What is Florida’s dog bite law?
Florida follows a strict liability rule, meaning dog owners are typically responsible for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression. However, exceptions may apply, such as if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or ignoring clearly posted warning signs about the animal.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Florida’s statute of limitations typically allows two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim. If you wait too long, you risk losing the chance to seek compensation. Contact us immediately to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
Why should I choose Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia?
At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we prioritize your recovery and peace of mind. Our experienced Coral Gables injury attorneys understand Florida’s dog bite laws and are committed to helping you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. We are here to support you through the legal process so you can move forward confidently.
Take the First Step Toward Your Recovery
If you or a loved one has suffered harm in a dog bite incident in Coral Gables, do not wait to seek legal help. The sooner you reach out, the sooner Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia can begin gathering evidence, building a strong case, and pursuing the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Your recovery matters, and we are here to help. Contact us online or call 305-845-4470 today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Coral Gables dog bite lawyer.
