Dog: Everything You Need to Know

While most domestic animals are typically regarded as cute and friendly creatures, some breeds of dogs can seriously injure you or a loved one. While a dog bite can be both upsetting and even quite dangerous, it’s important to remember that you may have legal recourse if you are a victim of such an injury. However, the law can be a bit ambiguous or confusing when it pertains to dog bites, which is why we are here to address all those concerns. If you are someone who has experienced a dog bite, it is important that you are prepared for the following legal process so you can get the full compensation you deserve.

What Should You Do After a Dog Bites You?

Dog bites can be dangerous because they can carry diseases. If you have been bitten by a dog (even if it’s somebody’s pet), it is important to follow these steps:

1. Get to somewhere safe. Make sure you and the people around you are protected from any immediate danger first.
2. Assess the severity of the bite. Does the victim need immediate emergency care? If they are losing a lot of blood or they appear to be in severe pain, do not hesitate to call 911. A dog bite will almost always require medical attention.
3. Wash the bite as soon as possible. Use soap and water to thoroughly disinfect the area to the best of your abilities.
4. Apply firm and steady pressure on the wound if it is bleeding. Try to take note of how long the wound has been bleeding. Wounds that refuse to stop bleeding may be indicative of a more serious bite.
5. Look for signs of infection such as:
   1. Swelling and redness
   2. Fever
   3. Fatigue
   4. Night sweats
   5. Drainage
   6. Swollen glands around the bite
6. If your wound ends up getting infected, it is imperative that you get it treated by a medical professional immediately. They can cease further infection by prescribing you antibiotics.

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?

Generally, the owner of the dog is responsible if their dog bites. In the State of Florida, it does not need to be proven that the dog has a history of aggression or prior attacks. Even if the dog has been entirely docile up until the attack, the owner is still liable for its actions. Furthermore, whether the attack occurred on public or private property is irrelevant. In some cases, though, the owner of the dog may claim that the victim’s negligence provoked the attack, which may absolve them of responsibility. To determine if someone can provide compensation for your injury, it is crucial to consult an experienced attorney first.

In Need of a Personal Injury Lawyer?

When you experience harm for reasons that were not in your control, our skilled Orlando personal injury attorneys at Payer Law understand how wronged you may feel. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to receive compensation from another person’s dog bite. To get further guidance and to discuss your options, please do not hesitate to schedule a free consultation with us at 866-930-1238 today.

Resource:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0767/Sections/0767.04.html

health.clevelandclinic.org/if-a-dog-bites-you-do-these-7-things-now/

https://www.payerlawgroup.com/what-does-the-law-have-to-say-about-injuries-caused-by-dogs/