The Steps to Take to Strengthen Your Dog Bite Injury Case

Imagine you’re taking a walk, minding your own business, when suddenly, a dog attacks you. The sharp pain of the bite, the shock of the assault, and the overwhelming anxiety of not knowing what happens next—dog bite injuries can be traumatic, both physically and emotionally. If you’ve been bitten or attacked, it’s not just the initial injury you need to worry about. There’s the medical treatment, the emotional scars, and the potential for lost wages. What happens next? How can you get the justice and compensation you deserve?

At DuFault Law, we understand the complexities of dog bite injury claims and we’re here to help you navigate the legal maze. We’ll stand by your side every step of the way, ensuring that you’re protected and that your rights are upheld.

The True Cost of a Dog Bite Injury

A dog bite injury can range from a minor scratch to a devastating, life-altering trauma. The severity of the injury depends on many factors, including the size and breed of the dog, where the bite occurs, and how quickly you receive medical care. Dog attacks can lead to:

• Severe lacerations and puncture wounds that require surgery
• Infections that may spread if left untreated, causing long-term health problems
• Broken bones or muscle damage from being knocked down or attacked
• Emotional and psychological trauma, especially in children, which can result in PTSD, anxiety, or a fear of dogs
• Permanent scars that may require plastic surgery to repair

The financial cost of these injuries doesn’t end with the hospital bill. Victims often face lost income due to the inability to work, ongoing medical treatments, and rehabilitation. It’s not just about the immediate costs—it’s about securing compensation for the future.

Florida’s Dog Bite Laws: What You Need to Know

In Florida, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, meaning that they can be held responsible regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggressive behavior. Here’s what you need to know about dog bite liability in the state:

No “one free bite” rule: In many states, dog owners aren’t held liable for the first attack if their dog has never bitten anyone before. But in Florida, owners are strictly liable, meaning they are responsible for any dog bite, even if it’s the first time their dog has attacked someone.

Exceptions for provocation or trespassing: If the victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property or provoking the dog, the owner may not be held liable for the injury.

Documenting the Incident: It’s crucial to report the dog attack to local authorities or animal control. This documentation will serve as vital evidence in your case, helping to establish the circumstances of the attack and whether the dog had prior incidents of aggression.

How DuFault Law Helps You After a Dog Bite Injury

We know how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a dog bite. Between medical bills, emotional trauma, and the complexities of dealing with insurance companies, it can feel like you’re carrying a heavy burden. That’s where we come in. Here’s how DuFault Law can help you:

Thorough Investigation of Your Case: Every dog bite case is unique. We’ll investigate the incident to understand how it happened, gather eyewitness accounts, and assess the dog’s history. Was the dog aggressive before? Did the owner fail to follow local laws? We’ll use all the evidence to build a strong case for you.

Comprehensive Legal Representation: We’re here to ensure you get more than just basic compensation. We’ll go beyond medical bills and lost wages to include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and the future costs of medical care and rehabilitation. If the owner’s insurance company isn’t offering a fair settlement, we’ll take them to court.

Handling All the Details: You don’t need to deal with the stress of legal paperwork, deadlines, or negotiations. We’ll handle everything for you, from filing claims to working with insurance adjusters. Our goal is to give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on what matters most—healing.

Compassionate, Client-Centered Service: We understand that a dog attack doesn’t just leave physical wounds—it can leave emotional scars as well. Our team offers compassionate support throughout the process, providing you with the guidance and reassurance you need during a difficult time.

Fighting for Justice and Fair Compensation: At DuFault Law, we believe that dog bite victims deserve justice. We don’t back down when it comes to fighting for your rights. We’ll work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to recover from your injuries, regain your sense of safety, and rebuild your life.

Contact DuFault Law Today and Get the Legal Help You Need

A dog attack can disrupt your life, but with the right legal support, you can ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Don’t navigate this journey alone—let DuFault Law help you through every step of your dog bite claim. We offer free consultations and are here to answer your questions and provide the support you need.

Call us at (239) 422-6400 or email contact@dufaultlaw.com today to schedule your consultation and start fighting for your rights.