Boca Raton Dog Bite Lawyer

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including treatment for the mental and emotional suffering you have experienced.

Below are a few common injuries you may suffer when a dog bites you:

• Puncture wounds
• Neck injuries
• Injuries to your hands and feet
• Infection
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Nerve damage
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries

Dog bites are especially prone to infection because their teeth can puncture the skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). If you have been bitten by a dog in West Palm Beach or Boca Raton, contact a dog bite attorney to learn more about what compensation you may be eligible for.

Can I Sue for a Dog Bite in Florida?

You may have grounds for an injury claim when a dog bites you. Those injuries can impact your quality of life. A personal injury lawyer can help dog bite victims get the compensation they are due. To file a claim, you must determine who is responsible for your dog bite.

According to Florida dog bite laws, dog owners are responsible for the actions of their pets, as pets are considered their owner’s property. Florida has strict liability laws as well. That means that even if the dog had never shown any signs of aggressive behavior, the owner could still be liable.

This may be more complex and difficult if a stray dog bites you. Your lawyer can help you contact animal control and determine whether the dog had an owner or whether animal control in your area had received reports of the animal and neglected to take action.

What Happens When Animal Control Is Called for a Dog Bite in Florida?

When a dog bite happens and animal control is called in, it can spark an investigation into the animal attack. Animal control services are required to investigate any animal attacks and gather as much information as possible to determine the cause and responsible party of the accident.

For example, as the victim you may be interviewed about when and how the attack occurred, as well as the injuries and medical expenses you are facing because of the attack. They may also speak to you or the owner about the dog’s viciousness or signs that they knew it was vicious. This includes posting warning signs or otherwise keeping the dog isolated.

How Much Can You Get for a Dog Bite in Florida?

When you are injured in a dog attack, you may be concerned about the compensation you can receive. Dog attacks can be severe and difficult to recover from. Worse, many dog bites become infected, meaning you may need to speak to a medical professional as soon as possible and get regular treatment.

These expenses can add up quickly. If you have been bitten and need help getting compensated, contact our team to learn what your economic and non-economic damages may be worth.

Economic Damages

After a dog attack, a victim may need help getting compensated for the devastating economic costs of a dog bite accident. You may need immediate medical treatment for your injuries.

To get your compensation for the following damages, reach out to an experienced dog bite attorney who can help you calculate the value of your:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Transportation costs
• Future medical treatment
• Household accommodations

Non-Economic Damages

Getting compensated for dog bites is about more than your physical injuries. A dog owner’s liability may also extend to the emotional trauma you have suffered because of the dog’s actions.

Your non-economic damages may include any of the following:

• Emotional distress
• Mental anguish
• Fear and anxiety around dogs generally or certain dog breeds
• Loss of enjoyment of life

While you may seek medical care immediately after the attack, you may be unsure how to calculate these ongoing emotional injuries you’ve sustained. Our law firm can use our resources to help you get compensation under Florida law.

Time Limits for Boca Raton Dog Attack Victims

When seeking compensation for injuries sustained by an animal attack, remember that you have a limited time to sue. In Florida, you only have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case may be dismissed, and you’ll lose your chance to recover compensation.

Fortunately, your attorney can help you file a case now while you still have time. If you believe you are getting close to your deadline to file for a dog bite injury lawsuit, contact an attorney to learn about your options.

Talk With a Boca Raton Dog Attack Lawyer

When a dog bites you, you may need help covering your current and future medical expenses. The dog owner should be held liable for their actions, but you may not have the tools to hold them accountable in court.

As the injured party, you may need help from a Boca Raton dog bite lawyer. Our team in The Law Offices of Scott J. Senft is prepared to help you, starting with a free consultation about your case. When you’re ready to learn more, call or fill out our online contact form.