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Dog Bite Injuries
Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Some of the most common types of dog bite injuries our clients have dealt with include:
- Puncture wounds
- Internal bleeding
- Organ failure
- Traumatic brain damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Paralysis
- Loss of limbs
- Lacerations leading to septic shock
- Abrasions and contusions
- Neck or back injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Knee injuries
Florida Dog Bite Laws
Exceptions to Dog Owner Fault
There are some situations where dog owners may be able to avoid liability for the victim’s injuries. Most often, this occurs when injury victims have provoked the dog causing it to act defensively or violently. Here are some examples of provocation:
- Kicking
- Throwing objects
- Punching
- Screaming
- Yelling
- Spitting
When an injury victim provokes a dog into acting violently, it may be more challenging to hold the dog’s owner accountable. Florida has followed modified comparative negligence laws since 2023, so if you are partially at fault, you may still have the right to compensation for your damages as long as your portion of the fault is less than the 50% bar threshold. However, you can expect your settlement to be reduced proportionately if you are partially responsible. If you were found 15% at fault because you accidentally stepped on the dog’s tail, you could expect your settlement to be reduced by 15%.
Dog owners could also avoid liability if the injury victim was trespassing on their property at the time of the attack. Dog owners are expected to maintain control of their animals at all times. However, many dog owners have dogs to protect them from trespassers. If you were bitten or attacked by a dog while committing a crime or trespassing on someone else’s property, it may be challenging or impossible to recover compensation from the dog’s owner for your injuries.
You should also know that dog owners are not the only party that may be held accountable when a dog bites or attacks. Depending on the circumstances of your case, multiple parties could share blame. For instance, if the dog owner was relying on fencing to keep their dogs contained within their premises, but the fencing installer failed to do the job right, you may also have grounds for legal action against the fencing company. This is just one example. After reviewing the details of your dog bite case, your personal injury attorney will have a better idea of the individuals and entities who may be held accountable for your damages.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident
Knowing what to do in the moments following the attack is crucial for your health and your legal rights. Follow these six steps to protect yourself and build a foundation for a potential personal injury claim.
1
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even minor bites can lead to serious infections. Get treated and document all injuries.
2
Identify the Dog and Its Owner
Gather the owner’s name, contact information, and details about the dog’s vaccination history.
3
Report the Incident
File a report with local animal control or the police to create an official record.
4
Take Photos of Injuries and the Scene
Visual evidence can support your claim and help establish the severity of the bite.
5
Collect Witness Information
If anyone saw the incident, get their names and contact details for statements later.
6
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
A lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering.
CALL (954) 329-0137– South Florida’s Top Personal Injury Attorney
Scott J. Senft
Was born in Brooklyn, NewYork. He received his Bachelor of Science from University of Florida in 1988 and his Juris Doctorate from Georgia State University College of Law in 1991.
For over 32 years, The Law Offices of Scott J Senft have served South Florida as one of the top personal injury law firms. If you or a loved one has been involved in any type of accident, do not hesitate to reach out immediately.