Dog Bite Questions
West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, and Port St. Lucie, Florida
What is Florida’s law on dog bites?
Florida’s statute on dog bites holds the owner of the dog responsible for bite injuries, even if this is the first time the dog has bitten someone or the owner had no reason to fear the dog might bite someone.
What types of damages can be included in a dog bite case in Florida?
Damages generally include medical expenses and lost wages. These damages are called economic damages because the value of these damages can be calculated. Non-economic damages might include pain and suffering, mental anguish, or psychological trauma stemming from the attack. The Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb in West Palm Beach, Florida is highly experienced in determining the damages legally due to you for your injuries.
What are some typical types of dog bite cases?
In many dog bite cases, the dog was not previously vicious and had never bitten anyone. In some cases, the dog’s owner is entertaining at home, and for some unknown reason, the usually docile dog becomes agitated and bites a guest. We have all heard funny stories about dogs chasing mail men. The truth is that if your dog bites someone who comes to your door, you are liable. If a service person, such as a meter reader or cable repair person, walks into your yard and your dog bites the individual, you are responsible, unless you previously posted “Beware of Dog” signs.
What do I have to do to prove my dog bite case?
Nothing is done differently for dog bite cases than is done for other types of personal injury cases. It must be proved that the dog owner you are suing actually owns the dog that bit you, that the dog actually did bite you, and that you were injured by the bite. If the dog owner posted “Beware of Dog” signs, or warned you not to pet the dog but you petted the dog anyway, this can have implications for the outcome of your case. But in most cases, it is strict liability on the part of the dog owner.
How can dog owners decrease their liability?
Post a sign that says ‘Beware of Dog’. If your dog is dangerous, it is your responsibility to warn people. Even if your dog has never shown any violence, you may want to be cautious and limit your dog’s exposure to people. If you know your dog has a habit of aggressive behavior, you must warn guests on your property of this issue.
What should I do if I have been bitten by a dog?
The first and most important step is to seek medical attention right away to reduce your risk of serious injury or infection. When you are ready to pursue your lawsuit, please contact experienced dog bite attorney Craig Goldenfarb in West Palm Beach, Florida to file your claim and receive due compensation for your injuries.
OFFICE LOCATION: 2090 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd. Suite 402
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
1-800-GOLD-LAW
Call Toll Free 1-800-GOLD-LAW (465-3529)
The reader’s understanding of the information on this website about personal injury law does not constitute a formal legal relationship with the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb, P.A. Please do not assume this content to be formal legal advice. If you would like to know if you have a valid personal injury case, please contact a attorney in Palm Beach County at the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb, P.A. today for a complimentary consultation regarding personal injury law in Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Port St. Lucie and Palm Beach County, Florida.
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