When we think of dogs, we think of our loyal pets who love and appreciate us. However, these animals are not always as friendly as we would imagine. When a dog decides to bite, the results can be severe or even deadly.
These incidents can require extensive medical treatment, long recovery times, and leave you with years of hospital bills. Additionally, getting attacked by an aggressive pet could result in psychological trauma that sticks with you for years.
Thankfully, if the dog attack was caused by the owner’s failure to control their companion, you can usually work with a seasoned personal injury attorney to collect financial compensation. With assistance from an experienced Mount Dora dog bite lawyer, could get your life back on track and hold the pet owner accountable for their carelessness.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Since dog bites can be extremely damaging to the skin and underlying tissue, the first thing to do after being attacked is seek medical attention. This is crucial because even the most seemingly minor bites could cause internal bleeding or serious infections.
After receiving medical treatment, an injured person should contact local authorities to report being attacked by someone else’s dog. They should also take pictures of the wound and record any information they know about the animal or its owner. Afterward, a plaintiff should be sure to keep records of their medical bills, therapy sessions or any other expenses caused by the incident.
Finally, an injured person should reach out to legal representation as soon as they can. Our compassionate attorneys in Mount Dora could use any available evidence to strengthen their client’s dog bite claim.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases
While it is true that every dog bite is different, there are some statistical patterns behind the injuries associated with these claims. Some of the most common wounds seen in dog attacks include but are not limited to:
- Cuts, bruises, or deep lacerations
- Muscle and tissue damage
- Face or eye injuries
- Puncture wounds
- Infections
- Blood loss or internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Rabies
- Wrongful death
Any of these injuries would likely entitle a plaintiff to file a comprehensive injury claim, as our legal representatives could explain during a consultation.
Psychological Harm
The damage associated with a dog or animal attack is usually more than physical. Many survivors are left with severe physiological trauma, such as:
- Anxiety
- A new and lasting fear of dogs
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Flashbacks and nightmares
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Self-consciousness about their scars and other injuries
Fortunately, emotional trauma is usually compensable in a dog bite claim, and a dedicated Mount Dora dog bite attorney could help an injured person factor these more subjective aspects into their lawsuit.
The Legal Theory Behind Dog Bite Cases
In Florida, the dog leash laws of various counties require dog owners to maintain control of their pets at all times. For example, local regulations establish that dog owners may not let an animal run wild on any public street, sidewalk or park, under Ordinance 2009-A. Dogs can only run free on private property with the consent of the owner of that property.
Furthermore, a dog is allowed on public property only when restrained by a suitable leash and a person of sufficient strength.
Victims of dog bites in Florida should also know that strict liability laws apply to dog attacks. In other words, the victim does not have to prove the owner of the dog did anything wrong to sue. Establishing injuries, in most dog bite cases, subjects the owner of the dog and/or the owner’s insurance company to liability unless certain actions were taken by the owner to protect people from the dog. It is important to hire personal injury attorneys who are familiar with the laws concerning dog attacks and are experienced in handling these cases. Thankfully, our skilled Mount Dora attorneys have successfully handled cases involving dog attacks and other animal attack cases.
Other Common Animal Attacks Statewide
Dogs are not the only dangerous animals in the United States, especially in oceanfront, warm weather states like Florida.
- Suburban sprawl in Florida means people live in closer proximity to alligators and crocodiles than ever before. During the past 10 years, alligators have killed 13 people in the United States, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History.
- Alligator attacks are more common than crocodile attacks. No crocodile bite has ever even been reported in Florida.
- Warm weather swimming can also mean shark attacks. Over the same timeframe, nine shark related deaths have occurred in the United States.
As with dog attacks, shark, alligator or crocodile attacks can form the basis of an injury lawsuit if a human element is involved. For example, the owners of a gated community can be held legally liable if dangerous animals injure people within the confines of that property. Additionally, if a property owner feeds or maintains the dangerous animal, liability may be found. An experienced attorney can examine your particular case and advise you on whether you have a valid claim.
Reach Out to a Mount Dora Dog Bite Attorney to Protect your Rights
If you were bitten by a dog or other animal that looked friendly or well-trained, you might be feeling scared, confused, and frustrated. Additionally, trying to resolve the incident and seek justice can be an uphill battle if you are also seeking medical treatment or attending therapy.
You deserve justice in these situations, and one of our Mount Dora dog bite lawyers is here to help. Our hardworking legal team members could refute allegations of trespassing, protect your rights, and help you communicate the severity of your injuries in your civil claim. Reach out to our office today to schedule your initial consultation.
