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Panama City Dog Bite Attorney
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Panama City Dog Bite Attorneys
Being a victim of a dog bite can be a traumatic experience, and your actions in the immediate aftermath of the incident can have a significant impact on your ability to receive compensation. At Kanner & Pintaluga, our Panama City dog bite attorneys are committed to assisting individuals who have suffered injuries due to a canine attack. We navigate the complexities of Florida’s dog bite laws to provide comprehensive legal support for our clients.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
In the aftermath of a dog bite, taking prompt and appropriate steps is essential to protect your health and build a strong legal case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Promptly seek medical attention to address and document your injuries.
- Identify the Dog Owner: Obtain the owner's contact information and details about the dog, which can be essential for the legal process.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures of the location where the incident occurred, as well as any visible injuries.
- Collect Witness Information: If there were witnesses, gather their contact information. Their statements may be valuable in supporting your case.
- Report to Animal Control: File a report with local animal control, providing details about the incident.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep records of medical bills, photographs and any correspondence related to the incident.
Taking these steps can contribute to building a strong case and establishing the necessary documentation for a dog bite claim.
Factors that can Complicate a Dog Bite Claim
While dog bite claims in Florida are subject to strict liability, certain factors can complicate the process. Issues such as provocation or inconsistent accounts of the incident can arise, potentially impacting the claim. If there are disputes about what transpired, it can be beneficial to have legal representation to navigate these complexities effectively.
In some cases, the dog owner may dispute your version of events, claiming that their dog was provoked or that you were trespassing. Having a skilled attorney may allow you to address these disputes and present a compelling case based on evidence and legal arguments.
What Is Strict Liability in the Context of Dog Bite Law in Florida?
Florida operates under a strict liability doctrine when it comes to dog bites. This means that dog owners are generally held liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s actions. Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite rule,” Florida does not require previous knowledge of a dog’s aggressive tendencies for the owner to be held responsible. Strict liability simplifies the legal process for dog bite victims, as the focus shifts from proving the dog owner’s knowledge of aggression to simply demonstrating the occurrence of the bite.
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Kanner & Pintaluga have recovered over 1 billion dollars and are experienced in working against insurance companies. If you or a loved one has sustained a severe injury from an animal attack, the attorneys at Kanner & Pintaluga will work hard to defend your rights and maximize your compensation.Call 800.586.5555
What Makes Dog Bite Injuries So Serious and Expensive?
Dog bite injuries can be severe and result in significant medical expenses. The likelihood of catastrophic injuries, complications from infections, the need for expensive reconstructive surgery, emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are some factors that contribute to the seriousness and expense of dog bite injuries.
Catastrophic injuries, such as facial or limb disfigurement, may require extensive medical treatment and ongoing care. Infections from dog bites can lead to complications, requiring prolonged antibiotic treatments. Reconstructive surgery may be necessary to address severe tissue damage.
Moreover, the emotional toll of a dog bite can result in long-term psychological effects. Victims may experience anxiety, fear and PTSD, impacting their overall well-being. All these factors underscore the importance of seeking fair compensation for dog bite injuries.
How Can a Lawyer Help if the Dog Owner Disputes Your Version of Events?
When a dog owner disputes your version of events, a skilled attorney plays a crucial role in addressing these disputes and building a robust case. They can:
- Gather Evidence: Collect evidence, including medical records, witness statements and any available surveillance footage to support your version of events.
- Engage Experts: Utilize expert witnesses, such as animal behavior specialists, to provide insights into the dog's behavior and refute claims of provocation.
- Navigate Legal Complexities: Understand and navigate Florida's strict liability laws to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.
Having legal representation may allow you to better assert your rights and ensure that you are not unfairly held responsible for the dog bite incident.
Get Help After a Dog Bite in Panama City
If you’ve experienced a dog bite in Panama City, seeking immediate legal assistance is crucial. Our dog bite attorneys at Kanner & Pintaluga are here to provide the support and advocacy you need. From addressing disputes with dog owners to pursuing compensation for your injuries, we are committed to securing the justice you deserve. Contact us at (800) 586-5555 for a free consultation, and let us guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and your recovery is prioritized.
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Panama City Location
Panama City
3210 State Road, 77 Suite “B”
Panama City, FL 32405
(800) 586-5555
* Available by Appointment
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