Coral Springs Dog Bite Injury Lawyers
Dog Bite Injury Claims in Florida
At the Law Offices Cytryn & Velazquez, P.A., we handle animal attacks cases involving adults or children who have been bitten by dogs. Each year, nearly 2% of people living in the Coral Springs area are bitten by a dog. Our Coral Springs dog bite attorneys understand dog bites can not only cause physical harm but can also be a very emotional and terrifying experience with lasting consequences.
To help offset the costs of a tragic dog bite accident, our legal team can help make sure you are fully compensated for the damages resulting from your injury. Our qualified Coral Springs dog bite attorneys are prepared to help you deal with this sensitive matter and develop a plan to protect your interests and maximize your compensation.
Please contact us now at (954) 833-1440 to speak to a qualified Coral Springs dog bite attorney about your case. Legal consultations are available free of charge.
Dog Bite Liability
Florida has enacted a “strict liability” law for persons bitten by a dog under Florida Statutes 767.04 which states:
“The owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is on or in a public place, or lawfully on or in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owners’ knowledge of such viciousness.”
Basically, with few exceptions, any owner of a dog is completely liable for all injuries and damages done by their pet. Further, if the owner of the dog has no insurance coverage, in some cases their landlord may be held liable if the owner of the premises was aware of the dangerous nature of the animal.
Common Dog Bite Injuries & How to Treat Them
For some, it can be hard to believe that man’s best friend is capable of causing such serious injury. While most domesticated canines are typically harmless, the fact is that dogs are animals and are therefore subject to their instincts. A dog who feels scared, threatened, or agitated may lash out in the only way they know how—by biting. Though this is action may not be malicious, the results can be painful and costly.
Dog bites can lead to a range of injuries depending on the size of the dog and the victim as well as other factors. Some of the most common dog bite injuries and their effects include:
- Abrasions: Usually these are no more than minor cuts or scrapes, but if left untreated abrasions can lead to scarring and infection.
- Avulsions: These injuries are caused by skin being ripped from the body; an extreme example is having one’s ear bitten off. These injuries often require reconstructive surgery.
- Lacerations: These deep cuts go beyond the skin and may even affect your muscles, bones, and nerves. Lacerations require medical attention and stitches and can lead to infection.
- Punctures: Caused by a dog’s teeth piercing the skin, punctures are typically small but can go quite deep.
- Rabies: While the risk of contracting rabies is minimal, the effects are fatal if left untreated. Ask the owner of the dog that bit you if their pet has had their rabies shot; if not, do not wait to get to an emergency room. Learn more about rabies here.
There are many other ways dogs can injure a person. While dog bites are typically treatable, in extreme cases victims may suffer from serious infection, disfigurement, and even death. Small children and the elderly are especially susceptible to the adverse effects of a dog attack.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog:
- Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection
- Put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding
- Apply over-the-counter antibiotic cream
- Bandage the wound
- Visit a doctor
Your doctor will be able to provide additional medication and treatment if required and advise you on how to properly take care of the wound until it heals. Medical records will also back up your dog bite injury claim.
The Long Term Effects of Dog Bites
Dog bite injuries and their physical, financial, and psychological effects can be devastating. Hospital bills, counseling, nerve damage, and permanent scars are often a reality for dog bite victims.
Long term effects of a dog attack include:
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Cynophobia (fear of dogs)
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
We can help you cope with the effects of a dog bite by referring you to competent doctors, providing you with resources for counseling and additional treatment, and—most importantly—fight for your right to just compensation. Law Offices Cytryn & Velazquez, P.A. has helped numerous dog bite attack victims receive fair compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering, and other accident-related expenses.
We are here to assist you! Call our firm at (954) 833-1440 now for the efficient, competent, and personalized legal representation you deserve.
What Our Clients Say About Us
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"Absolute pleasure to work with."
They are extremely professional, honest, knowledgeable and will go the extra mile to take care of their clients.
- Ron D. -
"Very friendly, open and honest."
They made the final outcome not only successful, but they made entire process very interesting as well - a learning experience for me.
- John -
"Simply the best."
Mr. Cytryn was able to resolve my case better than I initially hoped for. I felt helpless until I hired him, then I knew everything was going to be ok.
- Former Client -
"Great track record."
I found him to be honest, hard working, loyal, empathetic and always available for you.
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