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In Florida, 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 . In addition, 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
of the damages caused by the dog attack. Sometimes, however, the
dog's "keeper," or the person who was taking care of the
animal at the time of the attack, may also be held liable. Also
in limited circumstances, a landlord may be held liable for the
damages caused by his tenants' dog.
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
a 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 counseling. Are
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 counseling, if necessary.
How is my lawyer paid? What
if I can't afford a lawyer?
Hancock & Hancock handles all dog bite cases on what is called
a "contingency fee" basis. This means that no fees or
costs are charged unless we collect money damages for you. All of
the consultations with our office are absolutely free. When you
receive compensation, meaning we have successfully concluded your
case, either by settlement or litigation, our fees are a percentage
of the gross settlement. This percentage is agreed upon before we
begin work, is in writing signed by you and the attorneys, and is
33 1/3% prior to filing suit and 40% after the lawsuit is filed,
up through trial.
The 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, investigations fees, expert witness testimony,
filing fees at the courthouse, costs of taking deposition, etc. 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
If you, or someone
you care about, has suffered injuries from a dog bite, contact our law firm for
an "instant" FREE and CONFIDENTIAL dog
bite case evaluation by completing our online
consultation form or contact us at (813)
915-1110 to discuss any questions you may have. Attorneys Michael Hancock
or Claire Hancock will personally provide detailed and comprehensive answers to
your important questions by reviewing your completed questionnaire, evaluating
your claim and responding to you, either by e-mail or telephone, within 24 hours.
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.
In addition
to dog bite injury cases, Hancock & Hancock handles the following types of
cases in Florida: |
