Tallahassee Dog Bite Lawyer

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, both physical and emotional. Some of the most common physical injuries include:

• Puncture Wounds: Deep holes from the dog's teeth that can become infected.
• Lacerations: Cuts that may require stitches and can leave scars.
• Fractures: Broken bones, especially in severe attacks.
• Nerve Damage: Injury to nerves can cause numbness, tingling, or loss of function in the affected area.
• Infections: Dog bites can introduce bacteria that lead to infections, requiring antibiotics or even surgery.

In addition to physical harm, dog bites can also have long-lasting psychological effects, especially on children. These may include:

• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): Victims may relive the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares.
• Anxiety and Phobias: Victims may develop a fear of dogs or even outdoor spaces.
• Depression: The emotional toll of dealing with an injury and fear can lead to feelings of sadness or hopelessness. 

Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite

If you've been bitten by a dog, it's crucial to take specific steps to protect your health and support your legal case:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries might not be immediately visible.
• Report the Incident: File a report with local authorities or animal control. This creates a record of the attack.
• Document the Incident: Take photos of your injuries and gather witness statements. This evidence will be vital for your case.
• Identify the Dog: Get the dog's details, including its breed, name, and the owner's information. If possible, ask for vaccination records to ensure the dog isn't carrying diseases like rabies.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation for various damages:

• Medical Expenses: This can include emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages: If you're unable to work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for the time you missed.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional distress, trauma, and the physical pain you endured.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the dog owner was particularly reckless or negligent, punitive damages may apply as a way to punish the owner and deter similar actions.

Florida’s Dog Bite Laws and Liability

In Florida, the laws surrounding dog bites can be complex. Here’s what you need to know:

• Strict Liability: Florida holds dog owners strictly liable for bites in certain circumstances, meaning they can be held responsible even if the dog has never attacked anyone before.
• One Bite Rule: Under this rule, a dog owner can be held responsible if their dog has previously shown aggression, even if it was the first attack.
• Defenses Available to Dog Owners: Dog owners may defend themselves by claiming provocation, trespassing, or that the dog was in a confined space (e.g., on their property).