The number of dog bites in Florida has increased in recent years, making the cases higher than the national average. Sadly, the highest event rate involves young children between five and nine.
While the event can cause lasting physical and emotional impacts on everyone, that is particularly true for kids, requiring ongoing medical and psychological care. When negligent pet owner actions cause others harm, personal injury laws allow the victims or their families to pursue legal action. Call a seasoned Lake County dog bite lawyer today to schedule a consultation to review your options.
The Typical Causes and Injuries
Dog bites and attacks may occur because of many factors and typically involve human errors. Owner negligence involves actions that fail to manage a pet, such as not keeping them fenced in or using leashes, which is commonly involved in lawsuits resulting from dog bite injuries.
While owners often consider dogs a part of the family, they are animals and can attack when they are afraid or someone invades their space. Those without adequate socialization training are also more likely to bite without provocation. Some of the common injuries in claims resulting from dog bites include:
- Deep cuts, puncture wounds, and lacerations with high potential for severe infections
- Permanent nerve damage
- Broken bones and crush injuries
- Severe head or face trauma and eye damage
- Permanent scarring, tissue loss, and disfigurement
- Muscle and tendon damage
- Long-term psychological trauma
A Lake County attorney could investigate a dog bite to collect the vital evidence to establish fault and collect a fair settlement.
State Dog Bite Laws
Dog owners in the state have a legal obligation to protect the public by taking actions to prevent their pets from harming others. Under Florida Statute § 767.04, when dogs bite or attack other people or animals, the owner is financially liable for the damages, even if there is no history of aggression.
That includes bites in public places or while people lawfully enter private property. Owners are not liable for damages when bites happen due to provoking the animals.
Exceptions to Strict Liability
Exceptions to strict liability of dog owners include people suffering injuries in attacks while trespassing on private property. The court may also waive liability if an adult enters a property with signs warning the public about the potential for danger from aggressive dogs.
Dangerous Dog Classification
The state also enforces a dangerous dog classification law. If animal control declares the animal a threat to public safety, owners must protect the public. If the dog bites someone in the aftermath, the owner faces the potential for civil liability and criminal penalties.
State criminal and civil regulations aim to protect people by preventing dog bites and attacks while holding negligent owners legally and financially accountable for the damages. A dog bite lawyer in Lake County could review the laws and answer questions about the process of collecting an award for damages.
Talk to a Knowledgeable Dog Bite Attorney in Lake County for More Information
State laws protect the public by making dog owners strictly liable, meaning fully responsible for the damages caused by their pets, even if there is no history of aggression. The consequences of an unprovoked attack can be significant and significantly affect the victim’s physical health, emotional health and well-being, and financial stability.
You have every right to pursue legal action against the liable party after their pet causes you or your child harm. Contact a compassionate and experienced Lake County dog bite lawyer to schedule a consultation to begin preparing your claim.
