Dog Bite Attorneys
As experienced dog bite attorneys in Florida, we know that all dog owners are strictly liable to the victim for dog bite injuries, regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner's knowledge of such viciousness. Additionally, dog owners are strictly liable for any damage or injuries caused by the actions of their dogs - bites are not required. This type of law is known as "strict liability," or liability without fault. In most dog bite cases, the animal's owner will be required to pay damages caused by the dog attack. Occasionally, the dog's "keeper," or person who was taking care of the animal at the time of the attack may also be held liable. In limited circumstances, a landlord may be held liable for the damages caused by his tenant's dog.
The partners at Hancock & Hancock, P.A. possess the experience of over 35 years of personal injury law in the following types of cases:
Claire D. Hancock
Michael F. Hancock
If a dog causes injury, the owner (or in some cases, the keeper or landlord) may be liable for the following damages:
- All past and future medical expenses
- All past lost wages and any future loss of earning capacity
- All past and future pain and mental suffering
- Damages for all scarring
- Property damage
The medical expenses associated with a dog bite can be extremely costly, especially in the event of any scarring injury. Scars can be a serious, life-long result of a dog bite. Children, because of their size, are particularly susceptible to bites around the head and face. Scarring injuries not only cause physical problems, but can also cause long-term emotional trauma, requiring a significant amount of psychological counselling.
Frequently Asked Questions regarding Dog Bite Cases
Are Florida dog bite injury cases covered by homeowners insurance?
Usually, yes. Homeowners insurance covers dog bite injuries, unless specifically excluded from the policy. Damages covered by homeowners insurance in a dog bite case include medical bills, wage loss, pain and suffering, future plastic surgery costs and psychological counselling, if necessary.
How is my dog bite attorney paid? What if I can't afford a dog bite lawyer?
Hancock & Hancock, P.A. handles all dog bite cases on what is called a "contingency fee" basis. This means that no costs or fees are charged until our dog bite attorneys in Florida collect damages for you. All of the attorney consultations within our Tampa Florida law firm are absolutely free. When you receive compensation, meaning we have successfully concluded your case either by settlement or litigation, our fees are based on a percentage of the gross settlement. This percentage is agreed upon before we begin work, in writing signed by you and the attorneys, and is 33% prior to filing suit and 40% after the lawsuit is filed, up through trial.
The dog bite attorney's fee is separate from the "costs" that the firm advances on behalf of the client. "Costs" include expenses for obtaining copies of medical records from hospital and doctors, filing fees at the courthouse, investigations fees, expert witness testimony, costs of taking deposition and further expenses. We advance all costs related to your case. Upon obtaining a recovery for a client, we are reimbursed the costs advanced by us.
Free consultation for your Florida dog bite case
If you or someone you care about has suffered injuries by a dog bite in Florida, contact Hancock & Hancock, P.A. for a free, immediate and confidential evaluation of your Florida dog bite case. Attorneys Michael Hancock or Claire Hancock will personally provide detailed and comprehensive answers to your important questions by reviewing your online consultation form, evaluating your claim and responding to you, either by e-mail or by telephone, within 24 hours. If you prefer, call attorneys Michael Hancock or Claire Hancock in Tampa at 813-915-1110 or toll free from anywhere in the United States at 1-888-975-1110. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will answer your questions, without charge, and there is no obligation to use our services.
As committed Tampa dog bite lawyers, and many other types of negligence cases such as personal injury cases, justice will be served for you.