Many families have dogs or other types of pets in the house. Dogs are normally friendly, loyal creatures, but they can also be unpredictable. Even well-trained dogs may lash out when something is bothering them.
Dog attacks can range from relatively minor to fatal. Severe injuries may require extensive medical treatment and long recovery times. Additionally, the psychological trauma that may result from a dog bite can be long-lasting.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a severe dog bite, you may be entitled to financial compensation to cover the damages associated with your injuries. A compassionate accident attorney can work with you to build a strong case against the owner. With the help of a Spring Hill dog bite lawyer, you can get your life back on track.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
The most important thing to do after a dog bite is to seek medical attention. Even seemingly minor dog bites can be dangerous, as animals can spread rabies and other infections through their saliva.
Once you have gotten the proper treatment, there are several steps you should take to protect your rights. It is important to contact the local authorities in your area to report the attack. It is also helpful to take pictures of your wounds as evidence.
You should also hold on to all your medical records, bills, and any other documents related to your injury. This type of information will be helpful when establishing fault. Ask a personal injury lawyer about the critical steps you can take to strengthen your dog bite case.
What are the Common Injuries Following a Dog Attack?
Dog attacks can cause serious physical and psychological harm. These injuries may even be permanent or fatal. Some of the most common physical injuries include:
- Lacerations and other skin injuries
- Puncture wounds
- Face and eye injuries
- Scars and disfigurement
- Infections and diseases
- Significant blood loss
- Muscle damage
- Head trauma
Psychological wounds are also common following these types of attacks, especially when they happen to children. These types of conditions may include:
- Flashbacks and recurring nightmares
- Anxiety attacks
- Depression and anti-social behavior
- Self-consciousness related to and scars and disfigurement
- A lasting fear of dogs
- Post-traumatic stress
Due to the severity of these injuries and damages, it is crucial that you seek comprehensive compensation for your emotional losses as well as your economic damages. A lawyer familiar with dog bite claims can also help you pursue compensation for the medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering you incurred after an attack.
Proving Liability for a Dog Bite in Spring Hill
According to Florida Statute § 767.04, a dog owner can be held liable if their pet bites and injures another person who was legally on their property. This is considered a “strict liability” statute, meaning it is not always necessary to prove negligence. While not always necessary, proving the dog owner was negligent can help bolster your claim for compensation. When you file a claim for a dog bite injury, you are filing a claim against the property insurance, whether that is a homeowner’s insurance policy or a business property’s insurance.
Can the Injured Person be Partially Responsible?
Negligence may also come into play if the dog owner alleges that you were partially at fault for the dog bite. If the court finds you partially negligent, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our dedicated dog attack attorneys can push back against these types of arguments.
Is an Attorney Necessary in a Dog Bite Case?
Dog bite cases are more complicated than many people believe. While the dog bite statute seems to make clear that the owner is liable for their pet’s actions, there are complex legal theories that can impact this liability. You can benefit from working with a knowledgeable lawyer who understands the legal statutes governing dog bite cases.
Call Spring Hill Dog Bite Attorney Right Away
If someone else’s dog attacked you in Hernando County or the surrounding area, you have the right to take legal action against them. No one deserves to suffer injuries in a dog attack, and our attorneys can help you pursue compensation so you can begin the healing process. Schedule a free consultation with Hancock Injury Attorneys today. Our Spring Hill dog bite lawyers can help you navigate your claim.