When a person sustains damages because of a pet owner’s thoughtless actions, they have every right to pursue legal action against the liable party. If someone else’s dog attacks you or someone you love, seeking prompt medical care is essential. This step will help prevent infection and permanent consequences and is crucial to recovering damages in a civil claim.
After seeking medical treatment, you should contact a skilled dog bite attorney to learn more about dog bite liability in Clermont and your options for pursuing compensation for your losses. Reach out to Largey Law Firm today to begin reviewing the details of your situation with a dedicated personal injury attorney.
Severe Dog Bite Injuries
People can sustain minor to severe and lasting injuries from dog bites, depending on the seriousness of the attack. Unfortunately, young children are most vulnerable to sustaining the most serious injuries due to their stature and their inability to recognize danger in some circumstances. Some common dog bite injuries include:
- Nerve and tissue damage
- Secondary infections
- Head, skull, and traumatic brain injuries
- Permanent disfigurement and scarring
- Severe facial injuries, including permanent eye damage
- Lasting psychological and emotional harm
Our skilled Clermont attorneys could thoroughly investigate a dog attack and help gather the essential evidence to establish liability.
Dog Owner Liability
Per the instruction of Florida Statutes § 767.04, the state follows a strict liability law. This means when Clermont pet owners are irresponsible, such as failing to use leashes or ensure the animals are locked safely behind a fence in the yard, the court will hold them financially responsible for the damages others sustain from bites or attacks when the person is in public or lawfully enters private property. The owner may also face criminal charges, depending on the circumstances of the attack.
Limitations of Liability
While the laws in Florida hold dog owners financially responsible for damages caused by their dogs in many situations, there are also limitations to how and when the state will hold them liable. Limitations of dog owner liability include:
- The dog is defending themselves from an attack
- The dog is defending their owners from sustaining bodily harm
- The dog bite victim is on someone’s property without permission
- The injured party was provoking the dog when the attack happened
During a consultation, our team could answer specific questions about the applicable statutes.
Meet With Our Qualified Clermont Attorneys About Dog Bite Liability
Not only can a dog attack leave you with severe injuries and permanent disabilities, but it can also cause lasting emotional damage, requiring years of therapy. You have the right to pursue compensation if you or someone close to you sustained damages from a dog bite or attack. However, while state laws protect people when they sustain harm because of owner negligence, the regulations are complex, and determining liability can be challenging.
Speak to an understanding lawyer from Largey Law Firm who is skilled with dog bite liability in Clermont for more information and help with your case. Our team will take a hands-on approach and ensure your rights are protected throughout every step of the process.
