Summary
Dog bites are a serious issue. Over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in America, and over half of the victims are children. Dog bites can result in severe injuries, and the mental and emotional trauma can linger long after the incident takes place. Contact a Boca Raton dog bite attorney at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia today to schedule a consultation.
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your damages, but you may not know where to start. You can call our Boca Raton dog bite lawyers at 561-320-8285 or fill out our online contact form.
Laws surrounding dog bites and personal injury claims for these attacks vary from state to state. Generally, state legislation around dog bites is divided into two categories: one bite rules and strict liability rules.
Florida law adopts a strict liability approach, holding dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets regardless of prior aggression. Check with the rules in your state or contact a dog bite attorney in Boca Raton for help understanding the legal landscape in your state and how it may affect your case.
In most cases, homeowner’s insurance policies will cover damages resulting from a dog bite. However, there may be some exceptions, like if the owner knew the dog was dangerous or failed to take reasonable steps to create a safe environment. Some homeowner’s insurance policies also have breed-specific restrictions that may leave the owner personally liable for a dog bite.
There are a number of legal defenses that dog owners may employ in the event that their dog bites someone. Some examples include:
In some cases, dog owners may also argue that the victim must prove negligence, especially in non-bite-related injuries.
Dog bites can cause devastating common injuries. Beyond the significant physical injuries that a bite can cause, victims may also suffer psychological trauma and other long-term consequences.
Dog bites are a leading cause of non-fatal emergency room visits, particularly in children. Dogs can bite with tremendous force, and even smaller breeds can still do severe damage with their teeth. Some of the most common types of injuries caused by dog bites include:
If you have suffered a dog bite, get checked out by a medical professional right away. Some wounds may be more serious than they appear, and it’s always better to be safe.
Dog bites can cause severe psychological trauma in addition to the physical injuries. Victims may experience a debilitating fear of dogs, even dogs that they had previously enjoyed friendly relationships with. Anxiety is common, both generalized and around dogs. Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD is a typical result of dog bite attacks, leaving victims with nightmares, flashbacks, or hypervigilance.
Victims may also suffer social isolation, avoiding going out for fear of being around dogs. Appropriate medical care, including pain management, is essential for recovery from significant physical trauma.
The physical and psychological damage of a dog attack can lead to long-term consequences. Victims may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and may suffer mobility issues years after the initial attack. Psychological trauma may require long-term therapy and counseling. Additionally, injuries from dog bites can result in permanent scarring, highlighting the severity of such incidents.
If you have been bitten by a dog, seek medical attention immediately to protect your physical safety and your legal rights.
In the immediate aftermath of a dog bite, take whatever action is necessary to prevent further harm. Wash the wound carefully to avoid infection, and apply pressure or bandages to stop any severe bleeding.
As soon as possible, make sure to seek professional medical attention for the bite wounds. This will help prevent infection and other complications and provide documentation of the extent of your injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control, addressing the health risks associated with dog bites is crucial for disease control and preventing infections.
Report the dog bite incident to your local animal control authorities or police department right away. This will help them track the dog and prevent any further attacks.
Any evidence you can collect will be important for supporting your side of the story. Take pictures of your wounds and of the scene of the attack. Gather statements and contact information from anyone who witnessed the attack. Medical records are also essential evidence to determine liability and assess the financial impact of injuries sustained.
You should also contact an experienced attorney specializing in dog bite cases as soon as possible. The experienced Boca Raton lawyers at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia can help you assess your legal options and, if necessary, pursue a claim against the dog owners. Contact us today.
If you have been bitten by a dog, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries. These damages can include:
The amount of damages you’re able to recover in a personal injury claim may vary depending on factors like the severity of your injuries, the amount of your medical expenses, the length of time you were unable to work, and whether or not the dog owner was negligent or reckless.
Working with an experienced dog bite lawyers in Boca Raton can help you understand the damages you’ve suffered and the dog owner’s liability.
Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia has a team of experienced dog bite lawyers ready to help you seek justice after your injury. We offer a no obligation consultation to discuss your case and provide insights without any financial commitment. Our law firm will have your back every step of the way, from investigating the incident to negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, contact Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia today at 561-320-8285 or online to schedule a consultation. Our team of lawyers will help you protect your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Typically, you have two years to file a claim after a dog bite incident, though the specifics may vary between jurisdictions. Some exceptions may apply, like if you were a minor at the time of the incident. Consult with a dog bite lawyer to fully understand your rights.
Yes, you can sue for a dog bite even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. In states with strict liability rules, the dog owner is always liable for damages caused by their dog. In states with one bite rules, the owner may still be liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, especially if they have acted negligently.
The consequences for a dog after a biting incident may vary depending on the jurisdiction in which the attack took place and the severity of the incident. The dog may be confined to a fenced-in area, muzzled, or tested for rabies. In extreme cases, the dog may be euthanized.
The dog owner is typically liable for your injuries in a dog bite claim. Some exceptions may apply, such as if the dog was provoked or if the victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property.
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