Why Finding the Right Dog Bite Attorney in Fort Lauderdale Could Save Your Future

A dog bite attorney fort lauderdale can be the difference between struggling with mounting medical bills and securing the compensation you deserve after a traumatic attack. When choosing an attorney, look for:

• A contingency fee basis (no win, no fee)
• Expertise in Florida’s strict liability laws
• A free initial consultation
• A proven track record with dog bite cases

Dog attacks change everything in an instant. The statistics are alarming: over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually in the U.S., and in Florida, over 600 people are hospitalized each year. Beyond the immediate physical trauma of puncture wounds, nerve damage, and scarring, victims face overwhelming financial burdens from medical bills and lost wages.

The good news is that Florida’s strict liability laws strongly favor dog bite victims. You don’t have to steer this complex legal landscape alone.

At DiStefano Law LLC, we have served as proven accident lawyers for Fort Lauderdale residents for over 40 years, securing millions for our clients. Our experienced team knows how to hold negligent dog owners accountable and fight insurance companies that try to minimize your rightful compensation.

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The Aftermath of a Dog Bite: Immediate Steps and Common Injuries

When a dog attack happens, shock can make it hard to think clearly. But the steps you take immediately after can make a difference for your health and your legal rights.

Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if a bite seems minor, seek medical attention. Roughly one in five dog bites becomes infected, and infections can be serious. A doctor needs to clean the wound, assess the damage, and determine if you need stitches, antibiotics, or a tetanus shot. If the dog’s vaccination status is unknown, treatment for Rabies—a nearly 100% fatal disease—may be necessary.

While waiting for medical care, you can administer First Aid: apply pressure with a clean towel to stop bleeding, lift the injured area, wash with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover with a sterile bandage. Watch for signs of infection like spreading redness, swelling, increased pain, pus, or fever, and seek emergency care if they appear.

Reporting the Incident

Once you are safe, create an official record.

• Contact Broward County Animal Care: They will document the incident and ensure the dog is observed for rabies.
• File a Police Report: This is especially important for severe bites or if the owner is uncooperative. An official report is crucial evidence.

Gathering Evidence

The more information you collect, the stronger your case.

• Photos of Injuries: Take clear pictures of your wounds immediately after the attack and throughout the healing process.
• Witness Information: Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the attack.
• Dog Owner’s Details: Collect the owner’s name, address, phone number, and insurance information. Note the dog’s breed and any known history of aggression.

Common Injuries and Complications

Dog bites can cause life-altering physical and emotional harm.

• Physical Injuries: These range from deep Puncture Wounds that drive bacteria into tissues, to jagged Lacerations that cause significant scarring. Nerve Damage can lead to permanent numbness or loss of function. Many victims require reconstructive surgery for Scarring, especially on the face and hands.
• Serious Complications: Bites can transmit dangerous bacteria, leading to Tetanus or other infections like Pasteurella and MRSA. About one in five dog bites gets infected, sometimes leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
• Emotional Trauma: The psychological impact can be lasting. Many victims suffer from PTSD, with flashbacks and nightmares, or develop debilitating Anxiety around dogs or in public spaces.

The road to recovery is challenging. An experienced dog bite attorney fort lauderdale can handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.

For more detailed information about the full range of injuries and their long-term impact, explore our comprehensive guide: More info about Dog Bite Injuries.

Understanding Florida’s Dog Bite Laws in Fort Lauderdale

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s laws are designed to protect you. Unlike many states, Florida has a strong stance that favors victims.

Florida’s Strict Liability Statute

Florida operates under strict liability for dog bites, as outlined in Florida Statute § 767.04. This means dog owners are liable for any damages their dog causes by biting someone in a public place or while lawfully on private property.

The owner’s responsibility is clear, and they cannot claim ignorance. Florida has no “one-bite rule,” which means an owner is responsible even if their dog has never bitten anyone before.

Exceptions and Defenses

While the law is strong, a few exceptions exist:

• Trespassing: The owner is generally not liable if you were on their property unlawfully.
• Provocation: If you intentionally tormented or abused the dog, it could affect your case. However, actions like petting the dog or accidentally startling it usually do not count as provocation.
• The “Bad Dog” Sign: A clearly visible “Bad Dog” sign can limit an owner’s liability. However, this defense does not apply to children under six or if the owner’s negligence also contributed to the attack.

Comparative Negligence

Florida uses a comparative negligence system. If a court finds you were partially at fault for the incident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found to be 10% at fault, you would receive $90,000.

Injuries Without a Bite

Not all dog-related injuries are bites. A large dog can cause serious harm by knocking someone down, leading to broken bones or head injuries. These negligence claims are more complex than bite cases but can still result in full compensation if we can prove the owner failed to use reasonable care to control their pet.

Statute of Limitations

Time is critical. In Florida, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. This deadline was shortened from four years effective March 24, 2023. If you miss it, you lose your right to seek compensation.

Broward County Leash Laws

Local ordinances, like Broward County’s animal ordinance, require dogs to be leashed and under control when off the owner’s property. Violating these laws is strong evidence of negligence. An experienced dog bite attorney fort lauderdale understands how to use these state and local laws to build a powerful case for you.

Securing Your Rightful Compensation with a Dog Bite Attorney Fort Lauderdale

The aftermath of a dog bite involves physical pain, emotional trauma, and a mountain of medical bills. When you can’t work, the financial pressure intensifies. This is where an experienced dog bite attorney fort lauderdale becomes essential.

Calculating Your Claim’s Value

Determining what you are owed requires evaluating all your losses.

• Economic damages are tangible costs. This includes all medical bills (current and future), lost wages, and reduced future earning capacity. It also covers property damage, like torn clothing or broken glasses.
• Non-economic damages compensate for intangible suffering. This includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, and the loss of enjoyment of life if the attack prevents you from participating in activities you once loved.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Most dog bite claims are paid by the owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. However, insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may downplay your injuries, question your story, or make a lowball offer before you know the full extent of your damages. Never accept a quick settlement without legal advice, as you typically cannot seek more money later.

How an Attorney Fights for You

At DiStefano Law LLC, we protect your rights. Our role includes:

• Thorough Investigation: We gather all evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and the dog’s history, to build a strong case.
• Skilled Negotiation: Insurers take us seriously because they know we are prepared for trial. This leverage often leads to fair settlement offers.
• Aggressive Litigation: If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we will take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our goal is to achieve ‘Real Justice’ for our clients.

You can learn more about how we handle various personal injury matters by visiting our More info about our Areas of Practice.

Why a Specialized Attorney Matters

A specialized dog bite attorney offers significant advantages. Our deep legal expertise in Florida Statute § 767.04 and local Broward County ordinances allows us to build the strongest possible claim. This specialized knowledge helps us maximize your compensation by accurately valuing all current and future damages. Most importantly, we provide peace of mind, handling the legal battle so you can focus on your recovery.

To see what our clients say, please Read our Client Testimonials.

The Cost of Hiring an Attorney

We work on a contingency fee basis. This “No Win, No Fee” promise means you pay nothing upfront, and we only collect a fee if we win your case. This ensures everyone has access to quality legal help. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case with no risk or obligation.

Request a Free Consultation with us today.

Recoverable Compensation

We fight to ensure you receive compensation for all aspects of your loss:

• Medical Bills (current and future)
• Lost Wages & Earning Capacity
• Pain and Suffering
• Scarring & Disfigurement
• Emotional Distress
• Property Damage

Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Lauderdale Dog Bite Claims

After a dog bite, it’s normal to have questions. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve helped many Fort Lauderdale residents steer these situations. Here are some common concerns.

What if the dog that bit me belongs to a friend or family member?

This is an emotionally difficult situation. However, filing a claim is not about taking money from a loved one. You are filing a claim against their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, not against them personally. They pay for this insurance specifically to cover incidents like this. Handling the claim through legal channels often helps preserve relationships by removing personal financial pressure and allowing you to get the compensation you need for your recovery.

Can I still file a claim if I was working on the owner’s property?

Yes. Florida law protects people who are lawfully present on a property, such as delivery drivers, contractors, landscapers, or utility workers. As an “invitee,” the property owner has a duty to ensure your safety. You have a strong case under Florida’s strict liability law as long as you were not trespassing. Premises liability law may also apply if the owner knew their dog was dangerous but failed to take reasonable steps to contain it.

What happens if the dog’s owner is unknown or uninsured?

These cases are challenging but not impossible. An experienced dog bite attorney fort lauderdale will conduct a thorough investigation to identify the owner, which can include checking for security footage and interviewing witnesses. We also explore if other parties are liable, such as a landlord who knew a tenant had a dangerous dog. In some cases, your own insurance policy may offer coverage. We explore every possible avenue for compensation, which is why consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Our initial consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose by exploring your options.

Conclusion: Taking the Next Step for Your Recovery

Being attacked by a dog changes everything in an instant. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills can feel overwhelming – but you don’t have to steer this journey alone.

Throughout this guide, we’ve walked you through the critical steps to protect yourself after a dog bite. You now understand that Florida’s strict liability laws are on your side, holding dog owners responsible even if their pet has never shown aggression before. You know the importance of seeking immediate medical care, documenting everything, and understanding that compensation extends far beyond just medical bills to include your pain, suffering, and lost quality of life.

Your rights matter. Whether you were bitten while walking through your neighborhood, delivering packages, or even visiting a friend’s home, Florida law protects you. The two-year statute of limitations means time is critical, but with the right legal guidance, you can focus on healing while we handle the complex legal battles with insurance companies.

At DiStefano Law LLC, we’ve spent over 40 years turning our clients’ losses into our personal mission. We’ve seen how a dog bite can derail someone’s life – the fear of leaving the house, the financial stress of missed work, the emotional toll of permanent scarring. That’s why we fight so hard for every client in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Wilton Manors, Sunrise, and throughout South Florida.

We believe in real justice – not just settlements that barely cover your immediate expenses, but compensation that truly reflects the full impact this incident has had on your life. Our personalized approach means you’re never just another case number. We take the time to understand your unique situation and craft a legal strategy that maximizes your recovery.

Don’t let financial worries prevent you from getting the help you deserve. Our contingency fee structure means you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we win your case. Your initial consultation is completely free, giving you the opportunity to understand your options without any risk.

The path to recovery starts with a single phone call. Your *dog bite attorney fort lauderdale team is ready to listen to your story, answer your questions, and begin fighting for the justice you deserve.* Contact our Personal Injury Law Firm Fort Lauderdale for a free case review today.

Don’t suffer in silence. Let us help you reclaim your peace of mind and secure your future. After all, when it comes to getting the compensation you deserve, we’re determined to help you fetch every dollar you’re owed.