Orlando Dog Bite Lawyer
Protecting Your Rights After a Dog Attack
Dog bites and attacks can result in serious physical and emotional trauma, and the victims often face expensive medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you've been injured by a dog in Orlando or the surrounding areas, it's important to know that you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. At Action Law Group, our experienced dog bite lawyers are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need an Orlando Dog Bite Lawyer
In Florida, dog owners are typically held accountable for injuries caused by their dogs, whether the dog has bitten or attacked someone in the past or if the attack was a first-time event. The law allows dog bite victims to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages resulting from the attack.
Navigating the legal process can be complex, and insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. That’s where our skilled dog bite lawyers come in. We will advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries can range from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries resulting from a dog bite attack include:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Infections
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Trauma or emotional distress
- Tetanus or other complications
Even if the wound initially seems minor, dog bites can sometimes result in deeper, hidden injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Seeking immediate medical attention is important, not only to treat your injuries but also to document them for your case.
Understanding Florida’s Dog Bite Laws
Florida operates under a strict liability dog bite law. This means that, in most cases, dog owners are responsible for any injuries their dogs cause, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past or the owner was aware of it. However, there are exceptions to this rule:
- The victim was trespassing: If the victim was unlawfully on the dog owner's property, the owner may not be liable.
- The victim was provoking the dog: If the victim was engaging in behavior that provoked the dog to attack, such as hitting or teasing, the dog owner may not be held responsible.
Still, even in these cases, you may have a valid claim. An experienced dog bite lawyer will assess the circumstances of your attack and determine whether you have a case against the dog owner.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Attack
If you've been bitten by a dog, taking the following steps can help protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, a medical professional should examine the wound to prevent infection and ensure proper treatment.
- Report the Attack: Report the dog bite to the local authorities or animal control. This can help prevent future attacks and establish a record of the incident.
- Document the Injury: Take photographs of your injuries as well as any visible damage (such as torn clothing). These can be critical in proving the extent of your injuries.
- Get Information from the Dog Owner: Obtain the dog owner’s name, contact details, and insurance information, as this will be essential in pursuing a claim.
- Contact a Lawyer: Speak with a skilled dog bite attorney in Orlando who can guide you through the process and ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
How We Can Help You
At Action Law Group, we understand the challenges dog bite victims face. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from filing your claim to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary.
Our dog bite lawyers will:
- Investigate the incident: We will gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, eyewitness accounts, and information about the dog’s history.
- Handle insurance negotiations: Insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve. Our legal team will fight to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- Pursue your case in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will be ready to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
Dog Bite Compensation
If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Doctor visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any other treatment needed for your recovery.
- Lost wages: Compensation for any time you’ve had to take off work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the attack.
- Property damage: If your clothing, possessions, or property were damaged during the attack.
- Permanent disfigurement or disability: If your injuries resulted in scarring or long-term physical limitations.
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Florida?
In Florida, you typically have four years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. While this may sound like a long time, it's important not to wait too long, as evidence can disappear, and witnesses’ memories can fade. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible will help ensure that your case is strong and you don’t miss any important deadlines.
Contact Our Orlando Dog Bite Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Orlando, don’t wait—contact our experienced dog bite lawyers today to discuss your case. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or by phone today at (203) 439-3143 for a free consultation regarding your injuries.