Mrs. López and all of the Staff that had helped us it has been an absolute pleasure. They always had an answer to our questions and treated us with respect but most of all they listened.
Alondra O.
Outstanding Attorneys and Legal Team. Lopez, Justin, and Daisy were quick to answer my questions and handled my accident case with speed and courtesy. The outcome was much better than I anticipated.
Robert R.
A huge thanks to your office for such a great experience with my case. Special thanks to Denora, Carmen, and especially Kevin for answering my many calls and questions and keeping me informed through the entire process. I’m am extremely happy and grateful with the outcome.
Kathy W.
Experiencing a dog bite can be both traumatic and life-altering. The physical wounds, emotional distress, and financial burdens that follow require immediate and comprehensive attention. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite in Haines City, it’s important to understand your legal rights and the steps necessary to secure fair compensation. Lopez & Humphries, P.A. is committed to guiding dog bite victims through the legal process with compassion and experienced counsel.
Florida Law and Dog Bite Liability
Florida is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. This means that the dog owner is legally liable if their dog bites someone—even if the dog has never shown aggression before or has not been labeled dangerous. Florida law holds dog and pet owners accountable when their animals cause harm, whether the bite occurred in public or on private property where the victim was legally present.
Under Florida Statute 767.04, a person bitten by a dog does not need to prove the owner’s negligence. The law is designed to protect the public and hold dog owners responsible for any actual animal attack their pets initiate.
Common Dog Bite Injuries and Long-Term Effects
Dog bite injuries can range from minor bite wounds to severe injuries that may include broken bones, nerve damage, or deep lacerations. Some individuals also suffer from infections, mental duress, and long-lasting physical wounds inflicted during the attack.
In the most tragic cases, especially involving children or vulnerable adults, an actual animal attack takes lives. Wrongful death lawsuits may be appropriate in such circumstances.
Even non-fatal dog attacks can lead to lasting complications like:
- Chronic pain
- Disfigurement
- Emotional trauma
- Lost income
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Ongoing medical treatment and physical therapy
What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident
Following a dog bite incident in Haines City or nearby areas like Winter Haven and Lake Wales, victims should act quickly. Prompt action strengthens any future personal injury lawsuit and helps preserve key evidence.
Take these steps immediately:
- Seek medical attention for bite injuries—even if they appear minor. Infections and other complications can develop.
- Report the attack to local authorities. Police reports and animal control documentation can support your claim.
- Photograph your injuries, your blood-soaked clothing, the scene, and take a full body photo for evidence.
- Collect insurance information from the dog owner, especially if their homeowner’s insurance may apply.
- Contact a dog bite injury lawyer to protect your legal rights.
Damages You May Be Entitled To
Depending on the nature of the injuries, victims may be eligible to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills and emergency room visits
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Physical therapy
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income and reduced future earning capacity
- Mental duress
- Property damage (such as torn clothing or broken personal items)
In more severe cases where the injuries are permanent or life-threatening, the courts may award higher damages. Financial compensation also extends to individuals suffering from emotional injuries or PTSD following an animal attack.
Who Is Legally Liable in a Dog Bite Case?
The dog owner is typically held liable in most dog bite cases under Florida law. In some situations, other parties may also be responsible, such as landlords or property managers who knew a dangerous dog lived on the premises.
Important legal issues to examine include:
- Whether the dog was previously labeled dangerous
- Whether the dog owner had prior knowledge of the dog’s aggressive behavior
- Whether the victim was lawfully on the property when attacked
- The presence of insurance policies (including homeowner’s insurance)
An experienced injury attorney can investigate these issues and advise on the best course of legal action.
Why Choose Lopez & Humphries, P.A.
Lopez & Humphries, P.A. has represented countless individuals in Polk County, Central Florida, including Haines City, who have suffered due to dog attacks. Our team of skilled injury lawyers understands the intricacies of Florida dog bite law and is dedicated to helping clients obtain the justice they deserve.
We recognize that each dog bite case is unique. Whether you’re dealing with physical wounds, nerve damage, emotional trauma, or insurance adjuster’s goal of minimizing your payout, our firm is here to stand by your side.
We have helped dog bite victims recover damages related to:
- Blood drippings left on property
- Scratch marks and torn clothing
- Full body injuries
- Ongoing pain and physical therapy
- Emotional anguish and mental duress
We also assist in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, dealing with pet owners, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure our clients are not taken advantage of.
Learn more about Haines City dog bite lawyer services. Call Lopez & Humphries, P.A. at (863) 709-8500 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQs: Haines City Dog Bite Lawyer
What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Haines City?
Seek medical attention, report the incident to animal control or police, take photos of the injuries and the dog, and contact a dog bite injury lawyer to discuss your options.
Can I sue a dog owner if their dog bites me on private property?
Yes, Florida law allows individuals to file claims for dog bite injuries even if the incident occurred on private property, as long as the victim was lawfully present.
Does Florida require proof of negligence in dog bite cases?
No. Florida is a strict liability state, which means victims do not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent.
What types of compensation are available after a dog bite in Polk County?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical therapy, and future earning capacity losses.
Do I need an attorney for a dog bite case in Haines City?
While it’s not legally required, working with a personal injury attorney or animal attack attorney significantly increases your chances of securing fair compensation from pet owners or their insurers.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Under Florida law, the dog’s history doesn’t matter. The dog owner can still be held liable for the bite, regardless of whether the dog has a clean record.
