Lake Mary, FL Dog Bite Lawyer

When a serious injury stems from a dog attack, it’s time to speak with our Lake Mary, FL dog bite lawyer for assistance. We know that dogs are often a valued member of the family. But when they bite a person and it causes injury, dog owners can be responsible for paying that person’s medical bills and other losses that resulted from the attack. Our team at Presser Law, P.A. is informed about Florida dog bite laws and knows how to help you pursue compensation from the dog owner. Dog bites can lead to serious physical wounds that can leave behind scarring and other issues. If you have questions after a dog bite incident, now is the time to speak with our team. 

Florida Dog Bite Liability

Florida is a strict liability state. This means that a dog owner may be liable for their dog’s bite, even if they were not aware of their aggressive nature beforehand. If someone was injured in a public space or when lawfully on another’s private property, then they can pursue compensation from the dog owner. Victims may obtain compensation through law claims related to negligence, scienter, negligence per se, and intentional tort. An owner may be deemed negligent if they did not provide a degree of care similar to how another reasonable person would have acted in alike circumstances. An owner may be liable if they had violated regulations or statutes that were established to protect the safety of the public. In some cases, a victim may pursue damages through an intentional tort claim, in which the owner may have intended for the dog to attack the victim. 

Dangerous Dog Statute

An important statute for the state of Florida is the dangerous dog statute. This is intended to safeguard the public from aggressive canines. A dog may be declared as dangerous, and in such situations, the owner must take specific precautions and abide by strict rules for their animal. The owner may be criminally responsible for injuries caused by their dangerous canine. The dog may be registered through the local authorities and kept in a secured area that is adequately marked with warning signs. If the animal is taken off the premises, it has to be restrained with a muzzle, leash, or harness. As a Lake Mary dog bite lawyer explains, Florida dog bite laws view a dangerous dog as one that:

• Has bitten, attacked, or caused serious injury to a person. 
• Has seriously injured or killed an animal more than once.
• Has aggressively approached or chased a person without provocation. 

Presser Law, P.A.

If you sustained serious injury from a dog bite or attack, please contact Presser Law, P.A. as soon as possible to learn about your compensation eligibility. Dog owners are responsible for keeping others safe from their aggressive animal. A Lake Mary dog bite lawyer can help you get repayment for your medical bills, loss of wages, and other damages you sustained. We are here to guide you through this process, so please call today.

How We Can Assist You In Filing A Dog Bite Injury Claim

Our Lake Mary, FL dog bite lawyer understands that being injured in a dog bite attack can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. In the state of Florida, victims of dog bites have the legal right to seek compensation for their injuries. 

Understanding Florida’s Dog Bite Laws

Florida law holds dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets. Under Florida Statute Section 767.04, a dog owner can be held liable for injuries if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. So, it is important to remember that you still have the right to file a claim even if this is the dog’s first documented attack.

The Importance Of Seeking Medical Attention

The first and most crucial step after a dog bite is seeking immediate medical attention. Even if the injury initially appears minor, dog bites can lead to infections, scarring, and other complications. Your health is of utmost importance, and documenting your injuries through medical records will be crucial in your claim.

Gathering Evidence

Our Lake Mary dog bite lawyer will work with you to gather essential evidence to support your dog bite injury claim. This includes:

1. Incident Details: Documenting the date, time, and location of the dog bite, as well as any witnesses present at the scene.
2. Photographs: Taking photographs of your injuries, including any wounds, bruises, or lacerations, is essential for documenting the extent of your injuries.
3. Medical Records: Collecting all medical records related to the dog bite, including diagnosis, treatment plans, and medical bills.
4. Contact Information: Gathering the contact information of the dog owner, if available, and any potential witnesses.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often seek to minimize payouts. Our attorneys will handle all communication with the dog owner’s insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected. We will negotiate for a fair and just settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Litigation, If Necessary

In some cases, insurance negotiations may not result in a fair settlement offer. In such instances, our attorneys will discuss the next steps about taking your case to court and how we can advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

Help After A Dog Attack

Filing a dog bite injury claim in Florida requires a thorough understanding of the state’s laws and a comprehensive approach to gathering evidence and assessing damages. At Presser Law, P.A., we have the experience and dedication to guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected. If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation. Let us handle the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. Your well-being and financial security are our top priorities. Contact our Lake Mary dog bite lawyer today to take the first step toward seeking the compensation you rightfully deserve.

7 Common Misconceptions About Dog Bites

Dog bite incidents can be traumatic and confusing, and there are many misconceptions surrounding the legal aspects of these cases. At Presser Law, P.A., we aim to debunk some of these myths with our Lake Mary, FL dog bite lawyer to help you better understand your rights and options if you’ve been bitten by a dog. Here are seven common misconceptions about dog bite claims:

1. It’s Not Worth Pursuing Legal Action Unless The Injury Is Severe

One of the most common misconceptions is that only severe injuries warrant legal action. In reality, even minor injuries from dog bites can result in medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s essential to consult with a Lake Mary dog bite lawyer to discuss your options, regardless of the severity of your injuries. You must be able to prove you have injuries such as bruises, teeth marks, etc.

2. I Can’t Sue If The Dog Doesn’t Have A History Of Aggression

Contrary to popular belief, you may still have a valid legal claim even if the dog has no prior history of aggression. In Florida, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal’s past behavior. As long as you were lawfully on the property where the bite occurred and did not provoke the dog, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

3. Only Pit Bulls Are Dangerous

While certain breeds may be more commonly associated with aggressive behavior, any dog has the potential to bite under the right circumstances. It’s essential not to stereotype or discriminate against specific breeds. Instead, focus on the individual dog’s behavior and the circumstances surrounding the bite when pursuing legal action. No matter the size of the dog, if it injured you the owner can be held liable.

4. I Can’t Afford A Lawyer

Many people mistakenly believe that they can’t afford legal representation for a dog bite claim. However, some lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay any upfront fees, and your lawyer only gets paid if you receive compensation for your injuries. There’s no risk to you in pursuing a claim. Verify with your attorney if this works for your case.

5. I Can Settle My Case On My Own

While it’s possible to negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company on your own, it’s not recommended. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A skilled dog bite lawyer can advocate for your rights, negotiate a fair settlement, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

6. The Dog Owner Will Pay Out Of Pocket

Some individuals hesitate to pursue legal action because they don’t want to burden the dog owner with out-of-pocket expenses. However, in most cases, dog bite claims are covered by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Your compensation will typically come from the insurance company rather than directly from the dog owner’s personal funds.

7. I Can Wait To File A Claim

Waiting too long to file a dog bite claim can jeopardize your chances of receiving compensation. In Florida, there is a strict statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bite cases. It’s crucial to act promptly to ensure that your rights are protected and that you have sufficient time to pursue legal action.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to your legal rights. At Presser Law, P.A., we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of dog bite claims and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable Lake Mary dog bite lawyer. Let us advocate for your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.