A dog attack can cause serious injuries, infections, and long-term trauma, especially when the owner fails to control their pet. If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a dog bite due to a negligent owner, a dog bite lawyer in Orlando with Matthew R. Boren, Attorney at Law can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, emotional and physical pain, and emotional distress. Contact our office today for a free case review to discuss your legal rights and options.
Florida’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Laws
Under Florida Statutes § 767.04, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. This means that if a dog attacks someone in a public place or while lawfully on private property, the owner is automatically responsible for the victim’s injuries. Unlike states with a one-bite rule, which requires proof that the dog had previously shown aggression, Florida law holds owners accountable regardless of the dog’s history.
Because Florida follows strict liability in dog bite cases, victims do not need to prove negligence to seek compensation. Even if the owner was not aware of any prior aggression, they are still financially responsible for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by the attack. However, certain defenses may apply, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog at the time of the incident.
Common Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks
Dog attacks can cause severe physical and emotional trauma, often requiring extensive medical treatment. Beyond the initial wounds, victims may experience infections, nerve damage, scarring, and psychological distress that lasts for years. The severity of these injuries depends on factors such as the size of the dog, the force of the bite, and where the victim was bitten.
Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
Dog bites often result in deep puncture wounds that can damage muscles, tendons, and nerves. Unlike clean cuts, puncture wounds from sharp canine teeth can drive bacteria deep into the skin, increasing the risk of infection. In more severe cases, lacerations may require stitches, skin grafts, or reconstructive surgery to heal properly.
Some bites may cause permanent scarring, particularly when they occur on visible areas like the face, arms, or legs. Deep wounds may also leave nerve damage that affects sensation and mobility long after the injury heals. Seeking immediate medical treatment is essential to prevent complications and minimize long-term effects.
Infections and Complications After a Dog Bite
Dog saliva carries bacteria that can lead to serious infections, including rabies, tetanus, and cellulitis. Even a minor bite can become infected if not properly cleaned and treated, leading to redness, swelling, fever, and pus formation around the wound. In severe cases, untreated infections can spread to the bloodstream, causing life-threatening complications like sepsis.
Nerve Damage and Loss of Mobility
A powerful dog bite can penetrate deep into the muscles and nerves, leading to temporary or permanent loss of sensation or movement. Damage to peripheral nerves may cause chronic pain, weakness, or paralysis in the affected area. This is particularly concerning in bites to the hands, arms, or legs, where mobility loss can impact a victim’s ability to work or perform daily activities.
Scarring and Permanent Disfigurement
Dog bites can leave visible scars or disfigurement, particularly when they affect the face, neck, or hands. Even after a wound heals, deep scars may cause tightness, pain, or reduced mobility, especially if the bite damaged underlying tissues. In severe cases, victims may require plastic surgery or skin grafts to restore function and appearance.
Compensation Available in Florida Dog Bite Cases
A dog bite can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you were attacked by a dog due to an owner’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for expenses for healthcare, loss of income, and emotional distress. The amount you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical care, and how the attack has affected your daily life.
Medical Expenses From Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite victims often require emergency medical treatment, stitches, or even reconstructive surgery depending on the severity of their injuries. Infections from bites are common and may require IV antibiotics, wound cleaning, or hospitalization. Medical compensation can cover hospital visits, medications, surgeries, and physical therapy needed for long-term recovery.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
Severe dog bite injuries may prevent victims from working temporarily or permanently. Deep wounds, nerve damage, or mobility issues can make it impossible to return to a previous job. Compensation for lost wages includes time missed from work, future lost earnings, and potential job retraining costs if the victim is unable to return to their previous occupation.
Pain and Suffering From Dog Attacks
Beyond physical injuries, dog bite victims may experience chronic pain, nerve damage, and long-term discomfort. Some victims suffer permanent scarring or disfigurement, which can lead to emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for both physical pain and psychological trauma, such as difficulty sleeping or anxiety around dogs.
Emotional Distress and Psychological Impact
Dog attacks can cause lasting emotional trauma, particularly for children who are bitten. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, making it difficult to be around animals or even leave their homes. Compensation may cover therapy, counseling, and medications needed to manage psychological distress caused by the attack.
Scarring and Permanent Disfigurement
Facial bites, deep wounds, and torn skin can lead to permanent scars that require multiple surgeries or skin grafts. These visible injuries can impact self-esteem, confidence, and quality of life. Victims who suffer disfigurement may be entitled to compensation for future cosmetic procedures and the emotional toll of their injuries.
Contact an Orlando Dog Bite Lawyer Today
A dog attack can leave lasting physical and emotional scars, especially if the owner fails to prevent the incident. Florida law holds negligent dog owners responsible, and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. A dog bite lawyer in Orlando with Matthew R. Boren, Attorney at Law can help you hold the responsible party accountable. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can assist you.