Tampa Dog Bite Lawyer

Millions of people who call Florida home love their four-legged best friends. When properly trained and cared for, a dog becomes a beloved member of the family and might even provide protection in truly dangerous situations. However, animals can grow aggressive when such behavior is unnecessary due to a lack of training or abuse. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in Fern Cliff or Ybor City, a Tampa dog bite lawyer is here to help you.

Pursue Compensation with Ronald Bone, P.A.

With over 30 years of trial experience when it comes to personal injury cases, Ronald Bone, P.A., is here for you. Our team is set on getting those victories clients deserve, and while past results cannot guarantee future outcomes, we’re here to work toward the ultimate goal of recovering full compensation in your dog bite case.

Our lawyers are known for getting results, even if that means taking your case all the way to court. Let us protect your rights to compensation today.

Understanding Florida Dog Bite Cases

Florida operates under a strict liability policy when referring to dog bites or dog attacks. This means that even in cases where the owner had no real reason to believe their animal was aggressive, if their dog bites another person, the owner can be held legally liable for all damages. In most cases, a victim will not need to prove negligence on the dog owner’s part as long as the two following statements are true in a given case:

• The animal bit you and caused you to suffer injuries or other losses that can be addressed by the law.
• You were either legally on private property at the time of the dog bite or you were on public property.

In addition to strict liability, Florida takes an extra step by implementing a dangerous dog statute. In these cases, a dog can be labeled as aggressive and dangerous, and their owners are required to take certain steps to keep the public safe from the animal. In order to be considered a dangerous dog, one of the following statements must be true:

• The dog has exhibited aggression in the past by biting, attacking, or injuring a victim.
• The dog has attempted to attack or endanger another individual in the past.
• The dog has caused another animal, on more than one occasion, to suffer serious injuries or death.
• Without any kind of provocation, the dog has exhibited signs of aggressively approaching or chasing someone in the past.

If you have been attacked by a dog and are unsure of how your case sits in relation to these laws and statutes, the team at Ronald Bone, P.A., is here to help.

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

In a single year, over $1.5 billion is paid out by homeowners’ insurance for dog bites across the United States, and dog bite injuries rank number 13 for all non-fatal emergency room visits. When you are attacked by a dog, you probably won’t walk away unharmed.

Instead, you will likely find yourself dealing with massive medical bills and emotional suffering. At Ronald Bone, P.A., we are here to review your case and determine what compensation you are owed, including:

• Medical bills. Dog bites can often lead to infection if they are not properly cared for. They can also take a while to heal, and many complications can arise during the lengthy healing process. You may even require plastic surgery. Whatever the case, you are likely entitled to recover all related medical costs in a dog bite claim. 
• Lost wages. As you recover from a dog bite, you might have to take off work. Part of your compensation can help cover these lost earnings.
• Physical pain and emotional suffering. Being bitten can be serious and painful, and leave you with psychological forms of harm as well. Many victims will suffer issues such as posttraumatic stress disorder and increased anxiety or depression following a dog bite.

FAQs

Q: How Long Can It Take to Settle a Dog Bite Case in Tampa?

A: The length of time it takes to settle a dog bite case in Tampa will depend on the unique circumstances and factors of your case. The timeline of most Tampa area dog bite cases will depend on factors such as the complexity of your case, the willingness of all involved parties to cooperate, and the availability of both the evidence and the court system. 

Q: What Parties Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite?

A: Nearly 68 million households in the United States own a dog. In these cases, the dog owner is typically liable should their dog bite another person and cause injury. However, depending on the circumstances, you may also be able to seek compensation from the landlord of the property, a dog walker or dog sitter, or a kennel owner who was responsible for caring for the dog. 

Q: Should I Get a Lawyer in a Dog Bite Case?

A: Yes, you should absolutely get a lawyer for a dog bite case. Your attorney is there to help you navigate the complex legal system and work toward achieving the most desired outcome in your case. They can calculate the full extent of your damages, determine liability, uncover vital evidence, speak to potential witnesses, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. When negotiations are unsuccessful, they can take your case to court. 

Q: What Are the Most Common Injuries in a Dog Bite?

A: There is a wide range of injuries common in dog bite cases. These injuries include lacerations, puncture wounds, infections, nerve damage, scarring and disfigurement, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, sprains, bone fractures, and emotional stress and trauma. If you have suffered any of these or other injuries due to a dog attack, Ronald Bone, P.A., is here for you. 

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Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Tampa Today

Being attacked by a dangerous dog is a terrifying and emotionally traumatic experience. At Ronald Bone, P.A., when you hire a dog bite lawyer from our firm, we are committed to securing the fair and full amount of compensation and justice you deserve.

Our legal team has the skill and experience required to assist you with any kind of dog bite injury claim. Contact our St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay-based offices today to learn more and schedule an initial consultation.