Tampa Dog Bite & Dog Injury Lawyer
Most of us think of dogs as “man’s best friend,” and for good reason. For the most part, dogs are loyal, friendly, and obedient. However, when a dog causes an injury, whether through a bite or another type of incident, the consequences can be serious and unexpected.
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If you were injured because of someone else’s dog, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Dog-related injuries are not limited to bites. A dog may run into the street and cause a car accident. A dog may jump on someone and knock them down. A dog may escape a yard and cause a cyclist to crash. In each of these situations, the owner may be held responsible.
If you were harmed due to a dog attack or any dog-related incident Merricks Law Group is here to help. Contact our firm today to schedule your initial consultation.
Why Hire a Tampa Dog Bite & Dog Injury Lawyer?
Dog-related injury cases can quickly become complex. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize these claims, especially when the injury was not caused by a direct bite.
Our personal injury lawyers are prepared to hold negligent dog owners accountable in cases involving:
- Dog bites
- Dogs running into roadways and causing motor vehicle accidents
- Dogs jumping on or knocking down pedestrians
- Dog attacks causing falls or head injuries
- Dogs chasing cyclists or runners, leading to crashes
- Injuries occurring on public or private property
If a dog owner failed to properly restrain, control, or supervise their dog, they may be legally responsible for the damages that result.
Get Started NowCommon Injuries Caused by Dogs
Dog-related incidents can result in a wide range of serious injuries, including:
Lacerations and puncture wounds
Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Broken bones
Traumatic brain injuries
Back and spinal injuries
Soft tissue damage
Emotional trauma and anxiety
In severe cases, wrongful death
Even injuries that seem minor at first can lead to long-term complications. Our firm is here to help you pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
Dog Bite and Dog Owner Liability in Florida
Florida is known as a “strict liability” state when it comes to dog bites. This means a dog owner may be held liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if they had no prior knowledge that the dog was dangerous.
However, liability is not limited to bite cases. Dog owners in Florida also have a duty to properly control and secure their animals. If a dog owner’s negligence, such as failing to use a leash, secure a fence, or prevent the dog from entering the street, causes injury, they may be responsible for the resulting damages.
There are certain defenses that may apply in limited circumstances. For example, if a person was trespassing or provoked the dog, this may impact a claim. Additionally, the presence of a “Bad Dog” sign may serve as a defense in some situations, though it does not apply in all cases and does not protect owners when young children are involved.
Every case is different, which is why it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Statute of Limitations
In Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including dog bite and dog-related injury cases, is generally two years from the date of the incident. If you fail to file a claim within this time frame, you may lose your right to recover compensation.
Acting quickly allows your attorney to gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf.
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Dog-related injuries are often preventable. When a negligent dog owner fails to control their animal and someone gets hurt, they should be held accountable.
If you or a loved one has been injured in any type of dog-related incident, contact Merricks Law Group today. Our knowledgeable attorneys are ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.
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