Best Animal & Dog Injury Lawyers in Florida

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The Angell Law Firm, LLC
Destin, United States

Founded in 2010
6 people in their team
English
About The Angell Law FirmThe attorneys at Angell Law Firm exclusively practice personal injury law, which means that we have had years to hone our practice of personal injury law and have the experience and know-how to effectively fight for your rights. Personal injury is all we do all day, every...
The Pendas Law Firm
Orlando, United States

Founded in 2004
11 people in their team
English
Spanish
Portuguese
OUR FIRMEstablished in 2004, The Pendas Law Firm is one of the most prestigious and aggressive firms in Florida. We serve clients throughout Florida with offices located in Orlando, Tampa, Ft. Myers, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach Fort Lauderdale and Miami. As a result of our success and reputation,...
Rubenstein Law
Daytona Beach, United States

Founded in 1988
49 people in their team
English
WORKING TO PROTECT OUR CLIENTS RIGHTSRobert Rubenstein first opened Rubenstein Law in 1988 as a plaintiff’s personal injury firm. In 2008, after graduating with honors from the University of Miami School of Law, his daughter Nicole joined the firm. Together they've grown Rubenstein Law to over 45...
Dannheisser Injury Law

Dannheisser Injury Law

1 hour Free Consultation
Sarasota, United States

Founded in 1995
2 people in their team
English
Spanish
Dannheisser Injury Law is a Florida trial firm representing clients for their personal injury and wrongful death claims caused by automobile, motorcycle, trucking and bicycle collisions, premises negligence and slip and falls, nursing home and assisted living injuries and animal attacks. Our trial...
Mesin & Co. Law Firm | Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers
Miami, United States

Founded in 2024
5 people in their team
English
Russian
Mesin & Co. is a Florida law firm dedicated to representing victims of personal injury and accidents. Our Miami personal injury lawyers and Florida car accident attorneys help clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long term care needs. We handle...
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About Animal & Dog Injury Law in Florida, United States

Animal and dog injury law in Florida covers the legal responsibilities and rights of pet owners, injury victims, and other parties when an animal causes harm to a person. Most cases involve dog bites, but the law also applies to other types of injuries caused by domestic animals, such as scratches or being knocked over. These cases may result in physical, emotional, and financial consequences for both the injured person and the animal owner. Florida has specific statutes that outline liability, defenses, and the legal process for compensation after an incident involving an animal.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People often seek legal help in animal and dog injury cases to protect their rights and ensure fair treatment. Common situations include:

  • Victims seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering after a dog bite or animal attack.
  • Animal owners defending against injury claims or facing possible criminal charges if their animal caused harm.
  • Landlords or property managers involved in disputes over injuries caused by tenants' animals.
  • Parents of children injured by neighborhood dogs who want to understand their legal options.
  • Individuals facing insurance disputes related to dog injuries.

A knowledgeable attorney can help gather evidence, interpret applicable laws, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

Florida’s laws regarding animal and dog injuries are outlined in section 767 of the Florida Statutes. The key aspects include:

  • Strict Liability: Florida follows a strict liability rule, which means a dog owner can be held liable for injuries their dog causes, regardless of the dog's history or the owner's knowledge of prior aggression.
  • Location: The owner is typically liable if the bite occurs in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property, including the dog owner's property.
  • Comparative Negligence: If the injured person’s own negligence contributed to the attack, their compensation can be reduced proportionately.
  • Exceptions: Owners may have defenses if they displayed “Bad Dog” warning signs on their property (except in cases involving children under age 6) or if the victim was trespassing or provoking the animal.
  • Reporting: Florida law requires certain animal attacks to be reported to local animal control authorities.
  • Dangerous Dog Laws: Dogs with a history of aggression may be declared dangerous, leading to stricter regulations or even euthanasia in severe cases.

Understanding these laws helps ensure both the injured person and the animal owner know their rights and responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Florida?

First, seek medical attention, then report the incident to local animal control. Gather the owner's information and document your injuries with photos and written accounts.

Can I recover compensation even if the dog never showed aggression before?

Yes, under Florida’s strict liability law, you may be entitled to compensation regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner's knowledge of aggression.

What if the dog owner claims I provoked the animal?

If the owner proves you provoked the dog, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your role in causing the incident.

Are landlords responsible for dog bites on their property?

Landlords are generally not liable for injuries unless they knew about the dangerous animal and had control over the premises and failed to act.

Does Florida law cover injuries besides bites?

Yes, the law can apply to any injury caused by an animal, such as being knocked down or scratched, under certain circumstances.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a dog injury lawsuit in Florida?

You typically have four years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Is there a difference in the law for children who are bitten?

Yes, defending animal owners can rarely use the provocation or trespassing defense for children under the age of six, making liability more likely.

What happens to a dog declared dangerous in Florida?

A dangerous dog must be properly confined, registered, and insured. Multiple incidents or severe attacks can result in euthanasia.

Should I speak to an insurance company without a lawyer?

It is usually best to consult a lawyer before talking to insurance adjusters, as they may try to minimize your claim or use your statements against you.

Can a lawyer help if my pet was hurt by another animal?

Yes, you may have a claim for property damage or under local ordinances if your pet was injured by another dog or animal.

Additional Resources

Several resources and organizations can help those involved in animal and dog injury cases in Florida:

  • Florida Bar Association - Referral services for local attorneys with experience in animal injury claims
  • Local animal control agencies - For reporting incidents and information on dangerous animal regulations
  • Florida Department of Health - Guidance on required medical treatment and rabies protocols
  • City and County Animal Services - Rules about pet ownership, leash laws, and community safety programs
  • Florida Humane Society and local SPCA chapters - Advocacy and resources for responsible pet ownership

Next Steps

If you or someone you know has been involved in an animal or dog injury incident in Florida, consider these steps:

  • Seek medical care for any injuries
  • Report the incident to animal control or the local authorities
  • Document the event with photos, medical reports, and witness statements
  • Contact your local bar association or use an attorney referral service to find a qualified animal and dog injury lawyer
  • Consult a legal professional promptly to discuss your options and protect your rights within the state's statute of limitations

A lawyer experienced in animal and dog injury law can guide you through the complex legal process, help secure compensation, and provide peace of mind during a stressful time.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Florida through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Animal & Dog Injury, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Florida, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.