A severe dog bite injury can leave physical and emotional scars that last a lifetime. Unfortunately, dog attacks happen far too frequently and often injure children and seniors. Many times, these traumatic injuries require costly surgical repair and leave victims permanently disfigured.
At Syprett Meshad, we understand the hardships dog bite victims endure, and we are committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve. If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a canine, please contact our experienced dog bite attorney by calling 941-365-7171 or completing the form on this page to discuss your case for free. We welcome clients from from Sarasota County, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, North Port, Venice, or anywhere within the state of Florida.
What Is a Dangerous Dog?
A “dangerous dog” is defined under Florida law as any dog that has aggressively attacked bitten, endangered or inflicted injury on a person. A dog can also be classified as dangerous if it has killed or seriously injured another domestic animal.
When a dog is deemed dangerous, its owner must register it within 14 days of being declared dangerous. The owner is additionally required to:
- Register the dog annually
- Notify animal control when the dog is loose or unconfined
- Notify animal control when the dog has bitten another person or animal
- Ensure the dog is in a proper enclose
- Muzzle or restrain the dog using a strong chain or leash under the owner’s control
Florida Dog Law
Under Florida law, dog owners are subject to liability for injuring any person, domestic animal or livestock, regardless of whether the dog is identified as dangerous or if the owner is aware of the dog’s viciousness. However, compensation may be reduced or even nullified based on the percentage of the victim’s negligence in the attack. This type of negligence could be considered if the victim was taunting or aggressively playing with the dog.
Determining liability in a dog bite case can be complicated. Our dog bite lawyer is knowledgeable in Florida law and can help you understand your rights and pursue the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
The Advantage of an Experienced Dog Bite Injury Attorneys
It is an unfortunate reality that many victims of dog attacks are reluctant to speak with a personal injury attorney for fear of appearing foolish or litigious. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may feel inclined to brush off the attack or negotiate personally with the dog owner.
These are mistakes. If you are unsure about the strength of your claim, speak with our dog bite lawyer about your situation. Syprett Meshad has been helping Sarasota injury victims for over 50 years. We have the experience, resources and tenacity you need to pursue full and fair compensation. When you work with us, we can:
- Thoroughly investigate your attack
- Determine if the dog has a violent history
- Attempt to work out a fair arrangement with the owner of the dog
- Pursue a claim if necessary
Dog attacks can have life-altering consequences. Our dog bite lawyer can seek damages for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
The dog bite attorney at Syprett Meshad is committed to helping you obtain justice. If you’ve been attacked by a dog in Sarasota County or areas throughout Florida, please contact us today online or at 941-365-7171 to schedule a free consultation.
