Dog attacks can be extraordinarily traumatic events that leave victims with serious emotional and physical scars. Unfortunately, dog bite cases aren’t nearly as straightforward as you might assume they should be. Dog owners and their insurance companies frequently try to put the blame on you or your loved one – the victim of the dog attack. Working with a skilled and experienced Boca Raton dog bite lawyer may be the best way to ensure you’re not unfairly treated by the insurance company.

Dog Bite Injuries Can Be Particularly Severe and Traumatic

Dog bites can result in severe injuries, both physically and emotionally. Physically, victims often suffer from puncture wounds, lacerations, nerve damage, fractures, and disfigurement. These injuries can lead to infections, including rabies, permanent scarring and require extensive medical intervention, including reconstructive surgeries and physical therapy.

On the emotional side, victims can experience profound trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, fear and sleep disorders are common among dog bite victims. The overall effect on a victim’s life can be staggering, significantly impacting their quality of life and mental well-being.

Florida’s Dog Bite Laws and How They Can Impact Your Claim

Florida does not have the “one free bite rule” some other states have that protect dog owners from liability in dog attack claims. The state operates under a “strict liability” dog bite law (Florida Statute § 767.04), meaning the dog owner is responsible for injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has bitten someone before or the owner was aware of the dog’s aggression. This law can be a significant benefit to dig bite victims because it eliminates the need to prove negligence on the owner’s part.

However, comparative negligence frequently comes into play in Florida dog bite cases. The dog owner or their insurance company may claim your actions significantly contributed to the attack, which can reduce the damages you’re awarded by your alleged percentage of fault. An experienced dog bite injury lawyer, like the ones at Kanner & Pintaluga in Boca Raton, will know how to investigate dog bite cases to counter comparative negligence defenses.