Victims of dog bites and attacks often suffer long-term injuries, including severe scarring, disability, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dog owners in Florida are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. If a dog has bitten or attacked you without provocation, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages.
The dog bite lawyers at Rosen Injury Law have the experience, skills, and resources to investigate your claim, build your strongest case, and help you secure maximum compensation for your damages. Call (954) 787-1500 or complete the short form on our contact page and schedule a free consultation to discuss your claim.
Why Dogs Bite
Dogs bite for various reasons, and sometimes we have no idea why a dog bites someone. However, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), most dog bites happen for the following reasons:
- The dog is defending itself or its territory.
- The dog feels scared or is startled.
- They sense a threat to themselves or their owner.
- A sick or in pain dog is more likely to bite.
- The dog is guarding something vital to it, such as its food, toy, or its puppies.
Avoiding Dog Attacks
Sometimes, there is nothing you can do to prevent a dog bite. Some tips provided by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to help reduce the risk of dog bites include:
- Always ask a dog owner whether it is okay for you to pet their dog.
- If the owner permits you to pet their dog, allow the dog to sniff your hand first. Then gently pet them on their shoulders or chest and speak kindly to them. Do not make any abrupt or jerky movements.
- You should avoid any dog that is growling or barking.
- Carefully supervise children in your care when a dog is present and never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog. You should also teach children to treat dogs gently and respectfully.
- If a dog you do not know approaches you, do not run or scream. Stay still and quiet to help prevent the dog from becoming anxious or defensive.
What To Do If A Dog Bites You
If a dog bites you, request proof of rabies vaccination from the owner and obtain their contact information. Quickly clean any wound with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.
If you are injured, you should contact an experienced Florida dog bite attorney to help protect your rights and understand your options. You must typically file a claim to recover compensation for your damages within two years of your injury. However, there are exceptions, so you must promptly consult an injury lawyer in Fort Lauderdale to know your filing deadline.
Contact An Experienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages. However, insurance companies will do their best to deny, devalue, and delay your claim, hoping to settle it for as little as possible. You need the help of an experienced dog bite attorney who understands how devastating dog attacks are and who knows how to help you secure the full value of your claim.
At Rosen Injury Law, our dog bite attorneys have extensive experience protecting the rights of injury victims and helping them recover maximum compensation. Let us help you. Call (954) 787-1500 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation to discuss your dog-bite claim.