St. Augustine Beach Dog Bite Injury Lawyer - Jimenez Law Firm, P.A.

Understanding Florida Dog Bite Laws

Florida follows a strict liability law for dog bite cases under Florida Statutes §767.04. This means that a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog even if the dog has never bitten before. Victims do not need to prove negligence, only that the bite occurred and resulted in injury.

However, compensation can be reduced if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing at the time of the attack. Our legal team carefully investigates each case to determine liability, review animal control reports, and ensure all local regulations are considered.

St. Johns County Leash Laws: Local ordinances require dogs to remain under control at all times in public spaces. Violations of these laws can strengthen your injury claim. For more on these rules, see our Dog Bite Attorneys page.

Common Causes and Circumstances of Dog Attacks

Dog bites can occur for many reasons, but the most common include:

• Unrestrained or unleashed dogs in public areas or on beaches.
• Poorly trained or aggressive dogs owned by negligent handlers.
• Failure to warn guests about dangerous pets on private property.
• Improper fencing or inadequate restraint in residential areas.
• Animal provocation due to loud noises or unfamiliar children.

In many cases, victims suffer bites while performing everyday activities like jogging, cycling, or walking near coastal trails. Our attorneys collect witness statements, vet records, and animal control reports to build strong cases for our clients.

Typical Dog Bite Injuries and Long-Term Effects

Dog attacks can cause serious harm, especially to children and the elderly. Common injuries include:

• Deep puncture wounds and torn tissue
• Nerve damage or permanent scarring
• Infections such as rabies or tetanus
• Broken bones or crush injuries
• Post-traumatic stress and anxiety around animals

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs every year, and about 20% of these bites become infected. Our firm works closely with medical professionals to ensure your physical and psychological injuries are documented for fair compensation.

If you’ve suffered serious or disfiguring wounds, visit our Catastrophic Injury Attorneys page for additional guidance.

Liability and Compensation in Florida Dog Bite Claims

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency care, surgery, and long-term treatment.
• Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery or due to disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress and trauma from the attack.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery costs.
• Property Damage: Torn clothing or damaged personal belongings.

Florida’s comparative negligence law allows victims to recover damages as long as they are less than 50% at fault. Our team ensures insurance companies don’t minimize or deny legitimate claims.