Dog Bite and Animal Attack Personal Injury Attorneys
Dangerous dogs and animals are an increasingly significant and widespread threat to the safety and welfare of the citizens of Florida, as owners fail to confine, train, or control their animals. Sadly, too many children and adults are mauled by dogs and animals every year. Dog bites and animal attacks can cause devastating injuries and even death. In Florida, there are specific statutes to protect the victims of these injuries. Property owners or lessees can be automatically liable for damages under the law theory of negligence. An animal’s owner is liable for injuries to another when the victim is on public property or is lawfully on private property.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites and Animal Attacks are:
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
- Severe emotional trauma
- Nerve damage
- Lacerations and contusions
- Bone fractures
- Rabies infection
- Puncture wounds
- Slip and fall injuries when knocked down
Dog Bite and Animal Attack Lawyers
Klausman Law is an experienced personal injury law firm that can help you and your family navigate the legal system to recover losses. Damages due to animal attacks can be costly in terms of medical expenses, lost wages, counseling, pain and suffering, medications, and long-term disabilities. If you have been the victim of a dog or animal attack, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately due to the risk of infection. Collect evidence such as photographs, witness statements, and the law enforcement or animal control report. Many times, an animal will have a history of aggressive behaviors and a propensity to attack. Securing this valuable evidence strengthens a claim.
Florida is a strict liability state on cases of dog and animal attacks. The owner is liable for injuries even if they have no prior knowledge that the dog or animal may bite. The statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit for personal injuries is four years from the injury date.
We have Proven Results for more than Three Decades in Insurance Claims
Typically, settlements and awards for dog bites and animal attacks are paid through an owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s policy. There are circumstances under which third-party liability comes into play. While animals are boarded or under the care of a pet sitter, that third-party can be financially responsible if the animal attacks someone.
At Klausman Law, we are proficient at handling all insurance claims in securing a settlement or favorable verdict. Our attorneys have extensive negotiating skills and courtroom experience. We always meticulously prepare for litigation in the event of an insurance dispute, such as denial, delay in payment, or underpayment. Florida law considers comparative negligence in determining damages in a case. When a victim is injured after provoking a dog or animal, this may reduce compensation. In cases of no insurance coverage, we may recover damages from the animal owner’s assets.
Farmers and Livestock owners have a Right to Compensation
In Florida, every dog and animal owner has a duty to secure their animal, so it is not dangerous to others. Livestock owners may legally kill dogs that chase or attack their animals, such as sheep, cows, or horses. The owner of the dog is financially responsible for the cost of damages and losses.
Contact our successful dog bite and animal attack law office. Klausman Law offers a free consultation to discuss the circumstances of your personal injury case. We are available 24 hours of every day to address our client’s legal needs. Contact our Winter Park, Florida office at 407-917-1718. We are here to help you recover.