What To Do If You Are Bitten By A Dog | New Port Richey
Dog attacks can happen to anyone when least expected and can cause serious and permanent injuries and disfigurement. The extent of your injuries and the long term associated costs are not always immediately apparent.
Dog Attack Injuries Can Have Serious Consequences
It is important to understand your rights and the steps you should take if you or someone you care about has been bitten or otherwise injured in a dog attack. Don’t take risks with your future – seek advice from an experienced personal injury attorney.
Understanding Florida Law Related to Dog Attacks
Under Florida Law, a dog owner is liable for all injuries and damages that occur as a result of the actions of their pet if the injured person is in a public place or is legally on private property, including that of the dog owner. This is true regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggressiveness or whether the owner is aware of risks posed by the dog.
There are exemptions to this liability. If the injured party is found to have teased or injured the dog or has attacked the dog’s owner or family of the owner, there is no owner liability. Another exemption is if the injured person has ignored appropriate and clear warnings by the owner.
What You Should Do If You Are Bitten or Attacked by a Dog
Get medical attention for your dog attack related injuries: Your first priority is to seek appropriate medical attention. Even if you believe you are not seriously injured you should go to an emergency room and be evaluated.
It is possible that a rabies shot may be necessary if the owner cannot demonstrate that the dog has been vaccinated or if you are not aware of who owns the dog. Keep all paperwork and receipts for evaluation, testing, and treatment.
Obtain dog owner and witness contact information: Get the name and address of the owner if possible as well as insurance information and dog license information. Also, get contact information for any witnesses to the incident. Witnesses can be extremely important and helpful to your case.
Take photos related the dog attack incident: Take photos of your injuries and clothing as well as any other relevant areas of the scene of the incident. For example, if you are attacked while legally on the dog owner’s property, take pictures of the area to demonstrate that no warning signs were present. Cell phones can be useful for taking photos.
Report The Dog Bite To Authorities
Report the dog attack to authorities: You should report the dog bite to the police as well as to animal control, where appropriate. You may be a dog lover yourself or know the dog owner and hesitate to report the incident. But, in order to protect your rights this is an important step.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney: As soon as possible, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They can assess the particular circumstances of the dog attack incident and provide you with guidance regarding options and steps you should take. They can also help with referral for treatment.
What “NOT” to Do If You Are Bitten By a Dog
Do not sign any documents provided by any insurance company, the owner of the dog, or a landlord or property owner. It is inadvisable to even speak to an insurance company until you have had the advice of an attorney.
If You Have Been Bitten or Attacked by a Dog, Call for a Free Consultation Frank P. Bianco, P.A. – Personal Injury Attorneys – New Port Richey
Were You Bit By A Dog In New Port Richey? Let Us Know.
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