Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Fernandina Beach, FL
Compassionate Legal Support for Dog Bite Victims
Dog bites can cause severe physical injuries and long-term emotional trauma. At Jimenez Law Firm, P.A., our experienced dog bite injury lawyers in Fernandina Beach help victims recover compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering. We understand how frightening and life-changing these incidents can be, and we are here to fight for your rights.
According to the Florida Department of Health, more than 600 Floridians are hospitalized each year due to dog bite injuries, with children under 10 making up nearly 30% of cases. In Nassau County, reports of aggressive animal attacks have steadily increased, especially in neighborhoods with high pet ownership and limited leash law enforcement (Florida Health Dog Bite Data).
Understanding Florida Dog Bite Laws
Florida follows a strict liability rule under Florida Statute 767.04, which means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries their pet causes—even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. However, there are important nuances:
- Provocation defense: If the victim provoked the dog, compensation may be reduced.
- Trespassing: Owners may not be liable if the victim was unlawfully on their property.
- Comparative negligence: Damages can be shared if the victim’s actions contributed to the incident.
For additional insight into related claims, visit our Personal Injury Practice Areas.
Why Choose Jimenez Law Firm, P.A.
- Proven Track Record: Millions recovered for personal injury victims across Florida, including numerous six-figure settlements for dog bite and animal attack cases, demonstrating our skill in negotiation and trial advocacy.
- Local Insight: Decades of courtroom and negotiation experience in Nassau and Duval Counties, giving us strong familiarity with judges, opposing counsel, and insurance companies throughout North Florida.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency basis—clients pay only when we win, ensuring everyone can access quality legal representation regardless of financial circumstances or case complexity.
- Dedicated Client Service: Personalized legal strategies tailored to every case, with frequent updates, compassionate support, and hands-on guidance through every phase of the legal process.
- Trusted Reputation: Verified 5-star reviews highlight our commitment to compassionate advocacy and client satisfaction, with many success stories showcasing our consistent results and integrity-driven approach.
Visit our Testimonials to read what clients say about their experience with us.
Common Dog Bite Injuries and Their Effects
Dog bite injuries can vary from minor wounds to life-altering trauma. Our firm often represents victims suffering from:
- Deep puncture wounds leading to infection or scarring.
- Nerve and muscle damage that limits mobility.
- Facial injuries, particularly among children, requiring reconstructive surgery.
- Psychological trauma, such as PTSD or fear of animals.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the U.S., and nearly one in five require medical attention (CDC Dog Bite Prevention).
To understand how serious injuries are handled, explore our Catastrophic Injury Attorneys page.
Who Is Liable in a Dog Bite Case?
In Florida, dog owners are typically the primary liable parties. However, liability can also extend to:
- Landlords who fail to enforce pet restrictions.
- Property owners are aware of dangerous animals on their premises.
- Dog walkers or caretakers are responsible for controlling the pet at the time of the attack.
Our attorneys investigate every detail of your case, from police and animal control reports to witness statements and medical documentation, ensuring no responsible party escapes accountability.
Learn how liability differs in vehicular injury claims by visiting our Car Accident Attorneys page.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Fernandina Beach
- Seek immediate medical care – Even small bites can lead to serious infections.
- Report the incident – Contact Nassau County Animal Control or local authorities to document the attack.
- Identify the dog and owner – Get vaccination and ownership details.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of injuries, torn clothing, and the location.
- Contact Jimenez Law Firm, P.A. – We handle all insurance communications and build a strong injury claim.
For additional accident response guidance, see our Highway Accident Attorneys resource.
PRACTICE AREAS
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
Victims may be entitled to multiple forms of compensation, including:
Economic Damages
Covering tangible losses such as hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, motorcycle repairs, and lost wages. These damages also include ongoing medical treatments, future rehabilitation costs, prescription expenses, and any necessary home modifications or mobility equipment needed after the crash.
Non-Economic Damages
Compensation for pain, emotional distress, trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages also cover psychological suffering, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and long-term emotional impact that reduce quality of life and personal happiness.
Punitive Damages
Applied in cases of extreme negligence, such as when an owner knowingly keeps an aggressive dog without proper restraint.
Learn more about related injury compensation from our Slip and Fall Attorneys page.
Local Trends: Dog Bite Incidents in Fernandina Beach
Year | Reported Incidents | Severe Injuries | Children Involved | Notes |
2021 | 32 | 7 | 11 | Mostly residential neighborhoods |
2022 | 41 | 10 | 15 | Increase in off-leash cases |
2023 | 46 | 13 | 18 | Rise in mail carrier injuries |
These figures, compiled from Nassau County Animal Services, highlight the ongoing need for responsible pet ownership and stricter enforcement of Florida leash laws.
To explore more community safety updates, check our Blog.
What Our Clients Say About Jimenez Law Firm, P.A.
At Jimenez Law Firm, P.A., our mission is to provide top-notch legal services with compassion and professionalism. We are proud to have made a positive impact on our clients’ lives, as reflected in their thoughtful reviews:
Our clients’ trust and satisfaction are at the heart of what we do. Ready to experience the same dedicated service? Contact us today to see how we can help you.
Serving Dog Bite Victims Across Florida
Jimenez Law Firm, P.A. proudly represents dog bite and animal attack victims throughout Florida, including:
Our statewide experience and local insight allow us to provide strong, compassionate legal advocacy wherever you are in Florida.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Fernandina Beach, FL, contact Jimenez Law Firm, P.A. today. Our dog bite injury lawyers will review your case and help you recover the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call (904) 559-5600 or contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Seek medical care, report the attack to local authorities, and contact a lawyer before speaking to insurers.
Yes. Florida’s comparative negligence system still allows recovery even if partial fault exists.
You have two years from the date of injury to file your claim under Florida law.
In some cases, liability may fall on property owners or municipalities responsible for animal control.
Every case is unique. Compensation depends on medical costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
Yes, legal representation ensures your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Explore more legal FAQs at our Common Legal Questions page.
Contact Jimenez Law Firm, P.A. Today
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Jimenez Law Firm, P.A. at (904) 559-5600 for a free consultation.
Areas We Serve in Jacksonville, Florida
Jimenez Law Firm, P.A. proudly serves all neighborhoods in Jacksonville, including:
- Arlington
- San Marco
- Riverside
- Avondale
- Baymeadows
- Southside
- Orange Park
- Jacksonville Beach
- Neptune Beach
- Atlantic Beach
- Fernandina Beach
- Ponte Vedra Beach
- Northside Jacksonville
- Westside Jacksonville
No matter where you are in Jacksonville, we’re here to provide expert legal support.
Monday: 8:30AM – 5PM
Tuesday: 8:30AM – 5PM
Wednesday: 8:30AM – 5PM
Thursday: 8:30AM – 5PM
Friday: 8:30AM – 4PM
Calls Received 24/7