For someone who has been victimized by a serious dog bite injury, the physical pain is matched only by the emotional trauma. The terrifying sight of an attacking dog can cause deep, long-term psychological issues that require professional treatment.

The Florida dog bite accident lawyers at Freeman & Mallard are dedicated to the compassionate and aggressive representation of clients in Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie/Ft. Pierce and the surrounding areas.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dogs bite 4.5 million people annually. Almost 32,000 of those injuries required reconstructive surgery and 850,000 required some form of medical attention. The most likely victims are children between the ages of 5-9.

It should come as no surprise that dog bites occur most often in households that have a dog – and that dogs often will attack another member of the family. Many are under the misconception that only so-called “aggressive” breeds, like the pit bull or Rottweiler, are prone to attack humans. The fact is that even the most loving, mild-mannered family pet can suddenly become agitated enough to attack a family member, which unfortunately is often a defenseless child. In fact, 79% of dog attacks happen in the family home, to a family member.

But, a dog can attack under many circumstances. A neighborhood dog can break a leash, jump a fence or otherwise get loose, and attack a passerby. Or a negligent dog owner or landlord may fail to properly secure a dog. No matter the situation, there is very little known as to exactly why a dog suddenly attacks. There are cases of dog bite fatalities – again, most involving kids - in which everyone involved says the same thing in the aftermath; the dog was a long-time family pet that never bit anyone in the past.

Florida is a strict liability state, meaning dog owners can be held liable for a dog attack even if the dog has no prior history of aggression. Common negligence and negligence per se are two legal grounds that provide a victim with the means to make a financial recovery. Negligence per se deals with a violation of a law, such as a local leash ordinance, that leads to a dog attack. Florida law does provide for a reduction in a victim’s ability to recover compensation in cases where he or she is determined to be partially at fault. However, children under the age of 6 have been determined to be legally incapable of contributory negligence and thus cannot be found at fault in a dog attack.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a dog attack, the Florida dog bite attorneys at Freeman & Mallard are prepared to help. We understand that a dog attack often involves a beloved family pet or the pet of a neighbor or family member. In such cases, we can work with you and the owner in as amicable a manner as possible to file a claim against the homeowner’s insurance. However, it is important to file a claim as soon as possible in the aftermath of a dog attack. Medical complications, including infection and scarring are common and emotional problems, particularly in young children or elderly adults, can lead to long-term expense for treatment and care.

If you or a family member has been attacked by a dog, call today to schedule a free, no-obligation appointment to discuss your legal rights.