Humans and dogs have developed a rather cordial relationship over the years, and dogs are often even referred to as man’s best friend. However, sometimes accidents can occur between humans and dogs, resulting in injury. Come to think of it, have you ever wondered what would happen if you got involved in a dog bite accident? Well, the good news is that a dog bite lawyer can help you in such situations.
Indeed, you may require emergency medical attention to dispel any threat of getting infected after a bite. But then, who will be responsible for the medical bills, you or the dog owner?
Sadly, such accidents are very common in society today. And a recent report from AVMA shows that about 4.5 million people get bitten by dogs every year in the United States alone. So, be prepared should you fall victim to this unfortunate event.
Since dog bites are classified as emergencies, you may need to pay for the emergency treatment yourself. However, you can file for reimbursement afterward, but you will want a dog bite lawyer for this.
What is a Dog Bite Lawyer?
A dog bite lawyer is a skilled attorney specializing in dog bite cases. They can help victims or pet owners get justice in a case and are often your best bet. These lawyers will advise you on the best cause of action to take to get the justice you deserve. In addition, they usually help talk to the concerned parties to get you fair compensation.
They can also go as far as representing you in court if needed, depending on your contract with them. In short, these types of lawyers exist to ease your burden in a dog bite case with their expertise and experience.
What Damages Can I Recover from a Dog Bite Case in Florida?
Apart from the physical pain that dog bites can cause, victims can often suffer mental trauma from such events. You know how bad it can be if you or your loved ones have experienced this. However, you can find solace because they can seek justice afterward. At the very least, you can get compensation for your troubles and the medical bills paid.
In Florida, the dog law clearly states that dog owners are liable for damages suffered by a victim bitten by their dog in a public space. They will also be held responsible for a dog bite to a person lawfully occupying private property. Therefore, you can demand compensation for a dog bite that fits the above-stated law. Here are the damages you can be compensated for in a dog bite incident.
- Compensation for medical bills
- Compensation for prescription and drugs supply
- Payment of therapy bills
- Compensation for loss of income and earning capacity
- Compensation for the pain suffered
- Â Compensation for scars and permanent injuries incurred
- Â Compensation for other related expenses.
How Long do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Florida?
Florida is a strict liability state that holds pet owners liable for the actions of their pets. So, you can often hold a dog owner responsible and file for compensation. However, you should know the time limit to file such claims.
Also, since dog bite injuries are deemed a personal injury lawsuit, the time frame is pretty accommodating. According to Florida law, personal injury victims can file a complaint anytime within four years of being bitten. During this period, you can file for a claim against the dog owner or sue them in court if the need arises. However, your claim will be declared invalid if you take over four years before filing for it. It would help to have a lawyer’s contact on your speed dial for such cases.
What is the Process for Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Florida?
Filing a dog bite claim is easy and often does not require too much fuss. However, you can only get the best out of these cases when you go about them correctly. This is another reason why you should contact a dog bite lawyer to help you.
Firstly, you should ensure you are not at fault for the attack. For example, if you are unlawfully trespassing on personal property or attacking the dog owner, the dog bite can be considered a defense, and your claim will be negated. Also, if you provoked the dog attack, you will not be eligible to receive any compensation.
Finally, the dog owner can be proven innocent if they place a clear warning sign about the dog. However, if you are sure, you are not at fault for the attack, you can go on to file a claim.
Try to take pictures of the bite scene as evidence of your innocence. Also, you can get pertinent information from the dog owner or witnesses at the scene to further solidify your claim. Next, you can approach the dog owner for a claim or sue them in court for compensation.
Coleman Law Group Can Help You
Of course, nobody wants to inflict a financial burden on another person needlessly. But then, you deserve justice for the pain and expenses suffered after an accident, and that’s where a personal injury attorney comes in.
Representing yourself in such cases can be a dangerous game, especially if you are up against an insurance company. It would help if you had a personal injury lawyer; Coleman Law Group is your best bet. The lawyers here are experienced and well-trained to help you get the best compensation for your case.
