Legal Support for Animal Bites

Florida Dog Bite Lawyer

Each year, over 600 Floridians are hospitalized due to dog bites. It is a matter that receives little attention yet has a great impact. In Florida, dog owners are liable for injury inflicted in public places or when the victim is lawfully on private property. If you’ve been bitten, consult a trusted Florida dog bite lawyer at the Law Offices of Scott Jay Senft, to seek the compensation you deserve.

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Dog biting persons clothes that could lead to dog bite injury

Criteria for Suing After a Dog Bite Accident

Key Factors in Dog Bite Lawsuits

When it comes to pursuing legal action, it’s important to know that not every dog bite will lead to a successful lawsuit. Generally, victims can sue if the injuries are significant enough to warrant medical attention or if they lead to long-term damage. While minor bites might not meet the threshold for a lawsuit, severe injuries, such as those resulting in disfigurement, nerve damage, or psychological trauma, can form the basis for a claim. Your compensation can also be influenced by factors such as the location of the bite, the dog’s previous behavior, and whether the owner had prior knowledge of the dog’s aggression.

What other are saying?

Testiomonials

My experience was positive from the first moment I consulted with him. Scott was attentive, thorough, and helpful throughout a very difficult time. Rosie was my paralegal and was with us every step of the way with insight and compassion, always responding quickly and effectively with any questions or issues as they arose.

Kerine

Very Professional

I had a great experience with this Attorney and his team. It wasn’t a short process but it was completely worth it. I would recommend him anytime.

Sandra Fernandez

I would recommend him anytime.

Since the first moment I reached out to this office all the staff was very supporting and trying to help me in every way. The process took the average, I think, and I'm very happy with the result and feeling great.
Would recommend this attorney and his offices.

Monica

Great service

I just had a good experience. Communication was great with staff.

Jorge Hernandez

Communication was great

This office has a great clientele services,communication was outstanding and also I was able to get a good settlement. I can recommend anyone if you need legal help call this office the job and what you need will be done!! Brenda was great and helped me, guided me throughout this process love her!!

Medijah Clairmont

Great clientele services

I had a great experience with this law firm and staff, i had also gotten a good settlement money and can and will recommend anyone who needs an attorney to get the job done . this is it!! Need a lawyer call them!!

Malvina Baker

Great experience

This office was great with my case. Communication was prompt and thorough. They really try to do what’s best for you. Would recommend.

Alex Shelton

Communication was prompt and thorough.

This office did a good job with my case, I am satisfied with the care and services that they offered me. I recommend this office to all who need legal help, also Miss Brenda Rojas helped me and guided me throughout the legal process, is very kind, and had a lot of patience with me .. well I give u 100% here!

Carlos Luis Mendez Brito

Did a good job with my case

Very good services, nice people, very polite and professionals fighting to the end. I will recommend them 100% .

Olivia kennedy

Very polite and professionals

I can recommend this attorney to everyone I know, I got a good settlement and I am very happy!! Happy to have gotten the money that was given to me and also praise the Lord for all of his goodness!! The office was very friendly, Brenda helped me throughout the entire process, she always called me and made sure I was informed of what was going on in my case.. Love and much love to Brenda!!

Bobbie Sheffield

The office was very friendly

Brenda was great ..Called me to check in and let me know exactly what’s going on communicated with me throughout the whole process, I was also happy with the settlement provided and I can and will recommend This office to anyone, please speak to Brenda she will help you a lot and best of all.. I am happy with the results!!

Giovanni Maffeo

I am happy with the results

This office was very professional. My case manger Ada was always available. Highly recommend contacting this office for you’re any of youre accidents.

Lournicha Telfort

This office was very professional

I suffered a tragic loss of my totaled car back in September of 2017. Although the process was extensive, (as expected, these lawsuits usually take yearsss) I received transportation to and from my chiropractor visits as needed, my outpatient back procedure was given by one of the best doctors! (and relieved me of 80% of the pain I was experiencing prior); and Todd helped me out tremendously & talked me through the whole ordeal despite my frustrations. Today I received even more than I was expected to. I can now go purchase a new car! I want to thank Todd especially, as well as the Law offices of Scott Jay Senft! I would recommend them to anyone who is experiencing a loss due to a car accident. Thank me later

Deja Jinks

I would recommend them to anyone

Donna at Scott J Senfts office was truly amazing through this difficult experience. She helped me receive early funding for my immediate needs and bills and was holding my hand literally and figuratively throughout the entire process. The check I received was for much more than expected and I’m truly grateful for choosing this firm and wound recommend them to anyone

Dean Johnson

I’m truly grateful for choosing this firm

Professional law firm, they handled my case very well and I’m very satisfied with the settlement the lawyer was able to obtain. Previous lawyer didn’t compare to how Scott Senft diligently handled my case. Legal assistant handling my file was very understanding and helped me throughout the entire process. I was very satisfied and happy overall.

Joshua

Exceded my expectations

Seeking Compensation

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites in Florida have the right to seek compensation for a range of damages. Economic damages can include tangible losses like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Given the complexity of dog bite cases, especially when multiple factors– like insurance coverage and the dog’s history– come into play, working with a Florida dog bite lawyer increases the likelihood of maximizing your settlement outcome.

Financial Responsibility in Florida Dog Bite Cases

A key concern for victims and dog owners is who pays for damages after a dog bite. In Florida, dog owners are usually held financially responsible under strict liability laws, with coverage often provided by homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. These policies typically cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, some policies may exclude certain breeds or dogs with a history of aggression, leaving the owner fully responsible for costs. If the owner is uninsured or underinsured, victims can seek compensation directly from the owner through legal action.

Florida's Legal Framework

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Florida

Florida’s Dog Bite Liability Law

Dog bite victims are protected under tort law and are governed by strict liability principles. This means that dog owners are held responsible for injuries inflicted by their pets. According to Florida Statute 767.04, if a person is bitten in a public setting or while, lawfully, on someone’s private property, the dog owner can be held liable for damages. This holds true even if the dog has never exhibited aggressive behavior.

Dangerous Dogs Statute

Florida also enforces the Dangerous Dog Statute aimed at protecting the public from dogs with a history of aggressive behavior. A dog can be classified as dangerous if it has previously attacked or bitten a person or another animal without provocation. Owners of such dogs must register them with local authorities, securely confine them, and ensure they are restrained when off the premises. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe legal consequences, including criminal charges and civil liability.

Comparative Negligence Law

While Florida’s strict liability law is comprehensive, there are exceptions. Under Florida’s comparative negligence law, if the victim provoked the dog, their compensation may be reduced proportionately to their level of fault. Additionally, if the victim was unlawfully on the property or if the owner displayed a ‘Bad Dog’ sign, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. However, these defenses may not apply in cases involving children under six years old.

Immediate Actions to Take After a Dog Bite Accident

If you are bitten by a dog, it is essential to take immediate steps to protect your health and rights:

Seek Medical Attention

After being bitten, make sure to clean the wound thoroughly and wrap it in a sterile bandage. See a doctor as soon as possible to prevent infections and document your injuries.

Report The Incident

Notify the dog owner about the incident. If the injury is serious, report it to law enforcement to get an official report.

Gather Evidence

Collect the dog owner’s contact information, witness statements, and photographs of the injuries and the scene.

Consult A Lawyer

A Florida dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities and pursue compensation for your injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions to better understand your rights and options.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Injury Claim in Florida?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite injury claim is typically two years from the date of the incident. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, if the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended until seven years after the injury or until the child turns 18, whichever comes first.

What Damages Are Recoverable for a Dog Bite Injury?

Victims of dog bites in Florida may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments.

Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.

Property Damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged during the attack.

Are Dog Owners Always Liable for Dog Bites in Florida?

Florida operates under a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning dog owners are generally liable for bites regardless of the dog’s previous behavior. However, there are exceptions, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog. Additionally, comparative negligence may apply, reducing the owner’s liability if the victim’s actions contributed to the incident.

How Can a Florida Dog Bite Lawyer Help Me with My Case?

A Florida dog bite lawyer can assist by thoroughly investigating the incident and gathering crucial evidence to support your claim. They handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering. If necessary, they represent you in court to advocate for your rights. Throughout the process, they provide legal advice and guidance, ensuring you understand your options and that your rights are protected at every stage.

South Florida’s Top Dog Bite Lawyers

Your Legal Advocates

With over 30 years of experience in animal bite cases, the Law Offices of Scott Jay Senft takes a personalized approach, relentlessly fighting for the rights of our clients. Our team of Florida animal bite lawyers provides thorough and effective legal representation, drawing on decades of experience to help clients pursue the compensation they deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case, evaluate your legal options, and guide you through the process. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in seeking fair compensation for your injuries.