Man’s best friend isn’t always friendly. Dogs can be happy, playful, loyal, and protective, but their instincts – especially when combined with poor training, starvation, recent trauma, or sickness – can make them dangerous.
If you or a loved one were attacked by a dog or other animal, you need a dog bite lawyer in Tampa who can help you get the maximum amount of compensation possible.
The experienced personal injury attorneys at Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore can guide you through the legal system and help you understand Florida dog bite laws.
Contact us today to speak directly with a dog bite attorney in Tampa.
813-225-4000
While most dog bites are not life-threatening, the trauma of a bite can cause lingering physical and psychological issues, which naturally increase with the severity of the bite.
Horrific examples abound of children and adults who have been disfigured by dog bites, but even a simple bite that seems minor can become infected and require serious medical care.
At Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore, your dog bite injury lawyer understands the trauma that a dog attack can cause, and we are dedicated to helping dog bite victims recover compensation for their injuries.
If a dog bite has injured you, we have the experience to evaluate your case and decide how to proceed so that you can make a full recovery.
Our dog attack lawyers are based in Tampa; however, we serve clients throughout the state, including in the following cities:
Before you can get compensation in a dog bite lawsuit, you will need to prove a few elements. You must demonstrate negligence or liability on the part of the dog owner, and you must show that you sustained damages and injuries.
Examples of negligence may include:
There is no “one bite rule” or “one bite law” in Florida, which might allow a dog to bite once before an owner is responsible for their actions. Florida’s dog bite statute is based on strict liability, meaning the owner is automatically at fault if their dog bites someone else and they were negligent.
Dog bite victims can get compensation from dog owners or anyone who had control over the dog, including a doggie daycare, vet, dog sitter, or other party. You may be able to get money for economic and non-economic damages after a serious dog attack.
Your dog bite accident lawyer can help you determine the maximum value of your claim, which will include economic damages linked to out-of-pocket monetary expenses. Some examples of economic damages that you may have include:
Non-economic damages can also be recovered if you have permanent injuries. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and more.
Additionally, if your loved one died due to a fatal dog bite injury, then you can seek wrongful death damages as well. It’s important to speak with a Tampa dog bite lawyer if you have questions about your loved one’s fatal dog attack claim.
You should see a doctor immediately after a dog bite, even if you don’t think the wound is bad. Dogs have dangerous bacteria in their mouths that can lead to serious infections and permanent injuries.
When you’re able, contact a dog bite attorney who can guide you through the legal claims process so you can get the money you need to move forward with life.
At WMW, our experienced Tampa dog bite lawyers will listen to your story and determine what you need to recover. Our understanding of Florida dog bite laws and advocacy on your behalf will help you get a dog bite settlement or court verdict that will cover your damages.
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