Dog Bites-- What to Do by Erica Grundin

Dogs and other animals are often unpredictable, and attacks by dogs can cause gruesome personal injuries that may scar a person for life or even cause death. Unfortunately, children are the most frequent victims of dog bites.

In the state of Florida, specific laws regarding dog bites are in effect, including a strict liability dog bite statute. This statue states, in part:

• The dog’s owner is liable for damages if their dog bites a person who is either in a public place or lawfully in a private place
• The owner of the dog is also liable for damages to that person’s property harmed by the dog’s bites
• The dog owner is liable regardless of whether there was reason to believe the dog would behave viciously
• The dog’s owner is liable regardless of the dog’s former viciousness or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Every year, the number of dog bites and dog attacks increases. These events are traumatic for the victim and can cause serious injuries, including:

• Permanent scarring
• Nerve damage
• Significant risk of infection
• Psychological trauma

In fact, multiple deaths from vicious attacks are reported every year.

United States Dog Bite Statistics

• Someone seeks medical attention for a dog bite related injury almost every thirty seconds
• Approximately one million people require medical treatment annually for dog bite injuries.
• Dog bite injuries cause more than 300,000 hospitalizations each year
So what should you do if you or a loved one suffers a dog bite? Evidence must be collected quickly to enable medical providers and expert witnesses to evaluate your injuries. The first thing you should do is seek medical attention. The next thing you should do is contact a qualified dog bite attorney. Filing a personal injury claim can be complex and time-consuming. Issues may involve insurance coverage questions and numerous other legal concerns. Only an experienced personal injury attorney with the time and resources to devote to your case should be considered. Your attorney will know how you should proceed, how to gather evidence and how to properly file your claim.

Best of all, your attorney can ensure you receive maximum benefits to cover costs related to your physical and emotional injuries and other issues.

About The Author

In West Palm Beach and surrounding Florida communities, The Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb have helped many dog bite victims obtain the justice they deserve.

Visit the author's web site at:
http://www.800goldlaw.com