No one ever plans to be bitten by another person’s dog. As such, it can be difficult to know what steps to take in the aftermath of these types of incidents. Florida law provides the injured party with some rights when it comes to dog bites, and there are several steps you should take after being bitten or attacked by another person’s dog to protect your legal rights in the matter.
Have you recently been injured by another person’s dog in the State of Florida? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This dog bite attorney in Lakeland, Florida is going to discuss everything you’ll need to know below.
Document everything.
A dog bite can be a terrifying experience. But it is important to stay calm and document the incident as best you can. Take pictures of your injuries, the scene, and the dog, and write down everything you can remember about the incident. These will be important pieces of evidence for your dog bite attorney in Lakeland, Florida if you decide to take legal action.
Exchange information.
Another thing you should do after being bitten by a dog is to exchange information with the dog’s owner. Get the dog owner’s name, address, phone number, insurance company, and other relevant contact info. It is also important to get the names and contact info of witnesses who saw what happened.
Seek medical care immediately.
Even if the bite seems minor, it is crucial to seek medical care immediately. A dog’s mouth is full of bacteria that can cause infection, and some dog breeds are more likely to carry diseases like rabies. If you are bleeding, hold a clean cloth against the wound to help stop the bleeding. If the bleeding is heavy or does not stop, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Call animal control.
You should also call your local animal control. They will be able to investigate the incident and determine if the dog is up to date on its vaccinations. If the dog is not vaccinated, you may need to get a series of rabies shots. Animal control can also tell you if the dog has a history of biting other people.
Call an experienced dog bite attorney.
Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience, especially if the attack was unprovoked. If you or someone you love has been injured by a dog, it is important to know your legal rights. In Florida, the dog’s owner is liable for any damages caused by the animal. If you have been attacked by a dog, it’s best to get in touch with a knowledgeable dog bite attorney in Lakeland, Florida to discuss your case.
Your dog bite attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can also negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company on your behalf and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts
If you have been bitten by a dog in Florida, you may be worried about how the bite will affect your legal rights, financial obligations, and physical health. In the State of Florida, it is important to take immediate action after you have been bitten by a dog to reduce the risk of complications in the future. If you have any additional questions about how to proceed after being bitten by a dog, you can always get in touch with your local dog bite attorney in Lakeland, Florida.
Looking for a Dog Bite Attorney in Lakeland, Florida?
Are you looking for a knowledgeable dog bite attorney in Lakeland, Florida who can assist you with your case? If so, Tonya Stewart and her team at Tonya Stewart Law PA are the people to call. Contact us today at (863) 279-4473 to learn how we can help.