Dog attacks are known for being some of the most traumatizing experiences a person can go through. Though you may not be able to do anything to hold the dog itself accountable, fortunately, you can hold its owner to account for not keeping their pet under their control at all times. Continue reading to learn more about the steps you should take if you have been bitten by a dog in Florida.
First things first. If you haven’t already sought medical attention after a dog bite, you need to do so. You may have suffered injuries far more severe than you are aware of. Concussions, traumatic brain injuries, back injuries, some broken bones, and organ failure are not always immediately seen but can become much worse if not treated in a timely manner.
It is also important to the success of your case that you get medical attention as soon as possible. If you wait, the defense could argue that the dog bite wasn’t the cause of your injuries, and it can only help you both physically and legally if you obtain the medical care you need as soon as feasible.
After you have gotten any necessary medical treatment and are medically stable, you should start documenting everything. It may be in your best interests to take some time and write down everything you remember about the attack. Some details may fade over time, and the sooner you have the facts written down, the better.
Keep all of your medical records handy, and begin to document the various ways your life has been impacted by your injuries. You may be entitled to financial compensation for these losses, so this inventory of financial and nonfinancial losses will be an enormous benefit should you bring your case to court.
Though you might be feeling guilty or reluctant to file a lawsuit, you also shouldn’t get stuck with all of the financial losses and emotional trauma that come with being attacked by a dog. Florida holds dog owners strictly liable for the actions of their dog, so the lack of a prior predisposition toward violence or aggression is irrelevant if you choose to go to court.
If the dog's owner is unwilling to work with you to repay you for the harm caused by their dog, you may have no other option but to file a civil claim against them in Florida. This will give you the opportunity to secure compensation for things like your lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other losses.
The owner of a dog should always be held accountable for the actions of their pet under Florida’s strict liability laws. A qualified Tampa personal injury lawyer at Anderson & Anderson could help you obtain full compensation for your losses. To schedule a free, no-obligation case review, simply find us online or give our office a call at 813-251-0072.
