When You Suffer from a Dog Bite Injury in Orlando
Dog bites and maulings are among some of the most dangerous and traumatic injuries that the average American can sustain. Although fatal dog bites are less common, small children are statistically more likely to be bitten on the neck and permanently disfigured or killed. Hiring an Orlando accident attorney is the best way to ensure you receive due compensation for a debilitating attack. A severe dog bite on even a fit adult can cause long-term muscle and nerve damage and contribute to lifelong psychological stress.
Florida laws regarding the liability of dog owners are quite clear. However, despite the statutes holding the owner responsible, many major insurance companies will 
still fight these claims on the issue of what is your claim worth. More and more homeowner’s policies in Florida are excluding coverage for dogs, and more have separate limitations on dog bites. Without the aid of a qualified personal injury attorney in Orlando, you could end up heavily shortchanged by the insurance company and paying the difference out of pocket.
Irrefutable Florida Laws Protect Your Rights
As a dedicated Orlando personal injury attorney, I am committed to fighting for the irrefutable rights of my clients. Insurance companies will attempt to convince you that your case is not worth pursuing, but Florida law is perfectly explicit. There are two primary statutes in Florida that hold the owners of dogs responsible for the actions of their dogs:
- Florida Statute 767.01
“Owners of dogs shall be liable for any damage done by their dogs to a person”
If you are harmed by a dog, then in no unclear terms whatsoever, the owner of that dog is irrefutably responsible for you injuries. This is not only in regards to aggressive dogs but also a dog that jumps or scratches, resulting in a severe fall or laceration. Dogs are prone to sometimes unpredictable behavior, and responsible pet owners have a duty to ensure the safety and discipline necessary to maintaining such an animal. Does your neighbor take reasonable precautions to keep their dog leashed or confined to a yard? If not, you should not have to accept the burden of potential harm. Regardless of the circumstances, your Orlando personal injury lawyer will point to substantial evidence of the dog owner’s neglectful behavior.
- Florida Statute 767.04
“The owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is on or in a public place, or lawfully on or in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owners’ knowledge of such viciousness.”
In consulting with a dependable personal injury attorney in Orlando, you will be able to quickly obtain and understand your rights following a dog bite. Many dog owners will attempt to dismiss liability with the claim of “But he’s never bitten anyone before!” In some cases, you may hear that your mannerisms or clothing was unintentionally provocative or threatening to the dog in question. Such a claim is irrelevant and irresponsible. Maintaining ownership of a dog is to assume full responsibility for its behavior, regardless of the inevitable cause. In no way, should you be held liable simply because the owner was unable to predict a dog’s aggressive reaction.
A dog owner that is unable to prevent their dog from causing distress to innocent people is unlawfully negligent. You have a right to enjoy public places and your own home without the threat of an aggressive animal. Furthermore, anyone that invites you onto their property has a moral and legal responsibility to ensure your safety. Even a dog that has never bitten before is the responsibility of its owner.
Call Quickly and Do Not Hesitate
Speak with a qualified Orlando personal injury lawyer, even if your physical harm is minimal. Dog owners may also be liable for other aggressive actions from their dog even though no actual bite occurred. Ripped clothing, damaged fencing, and claw marks on personal property are all possible claims that you deserve to have protected. An aggressive dog that kills or injures another pet is every bit a liability to the owner as well.
If you or a loved one have been attacked by a dog or have a question about dog bite cases I am available to help with your claim. With over 35 years experience as a personal injury lawyer in Orlando, I have helped countless others obtain just compensation for their injuries. I meet with clients in the office, at your private home, or even in your hospital room, anywhere that effective and competent representation is needed.
When You Need an Orlando Dog Bite Attorney
Many victims or personal injury are are hesitant to obtain representation for fear of spending exorbitant costs on court fees. At Heil Law, my clients are served on a strict contingency basis. You assume no risk because you will receive no fees or charges unless the case is won in your favor. Remember that you have the right to claim compensation for:
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- Medical Bills
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- Missed Wages
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- Ongoing Therapy
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- Damaged Property
- And More
Many dog attacks are followed by anxiety and emotional trauma that can affect a person for years. Your premier Orlando personal injury lawyer will fight to obtain the maximum fair settlement for your case,
I serve my clients with detailed attention and a commitment to results. Free case evaluations are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. I would be happy to discuss your case with you, please call me so that I can further explain your rights.
