While many falsely believe only certain breeds of dogs are likely to attack, any dog can become aggressive when they feel threatened. Being attacked is a frightening experience that can leave you with painful bodily injuries and other lasting consequences.
When this tragic and life-altering event happens because of pet owner negligence, you have every right to expect them to cover the financial damages. Contact a compassionate attorney experienced with common causes of dog bites in Clermont for more information.
Common Causes of Bites and Attacks
Bites and attacks can happen anywhere and for many reasons. Some of the common causes of dog bites occur when negligent Clermont pet owners:
- Fail to keep their dogs in a fenced yard
- Neglect to use a leash
- Fail to adequately train their dogs
- Fail to supervise their dogs
- Fail to seek care from veterinarians when the animal is sick, injured, or elderly
Bites and attacks can not only leave people or their pets with severe bodily injuries, but they are also traumatic.
Time to File the Canine Bite Lawsuit
Dog owners are responsible for damages occurring when their dogs bite or attack others. However, an injured person must file a lawsuit in compliance with the statute of limitations. Under the guidance of Florida Statute § 95.11, the injured person has two years to file a lawsuit to recover damages from negligence and four years to seek action for violating the state’s civil dog bite injuries code if the accident occurred prior to March 24, 2023, or two years if after that date.
Regardless of the maximum time frame the law allows, preparing and filing the lawsuit as soon as possible is always best to ensure crucial evidence is still available. A lawyer skilled with typical causes of dog bites in Clermont could answer specific questions during a consultation and help build a strong case for damages.
Damages from Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
Dog owners are liable for the injuries and damage their dog causes by biting or attacking people or their pets. The laws protect people on public property or on the owner’s property legally. After establishing negligence in a dog bite claim, the court may award damages for the following:
- Medical expenses for past, current, and future treatment and ongoing care
- Medical equipment, devices, and prescriptions
- Lost pay and future earning potential and benefits
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and distress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder
- Loss of the enjoyment of life
- Permanent disabilities, scarring, and disfigurement
- Loss of companionship
While compensation cannot change what happened, it can pay for medical expenses and other losses, allowing the injured party to hold the negligent pet owner accountable. A lawyer who understands the typical causes of Clermont dog bites could investigate and help build a claim to prove liability and collect a fair settlement.
Call a Clermont Attorney Experienced With Common Causes of Dog Bites Today
Dogs make great pets, and many consider them a part of their family. However, state laws require that pet owners are responsible and ensure the animal does not cause harm to others in public or on the owner’s property when guests enter lawfully.
Civil laws may entitle you to compensation if you suffered losses from a dog bite or attack. Speak to a hard-working lawyer who is skilled in the common causes of dog bites in Clermont to review your case and options.
