Orlando Dog Attack Attorney

Dog Bite Claims

While dogs are man’s best friend, they are also animals, and animals can behave unpredictably. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.7 million people get bitten by dogs every year, and 1 in 5 people bitten requires medical attention.

In Florida, dog owners are responsible for the behavior of their pets, so you may have a case against someone if their dog bites you. At Maaswinkel Law, P.A., we can help you explore your legal options and guide you through this difficult time.

Florida Dog Bite Laws

The 2019 Florida Statutes address dog bites in §767.01 and §767.04. When it comes to dog bites, Florida is a “strict liability” state, which means dog owners are liable for damages their animals cause. Unlike other states, known as “one-bite” states, Florida does not require dog owners to know about their dog’s potential viciousness. This makes it easier for victims of dog bites to recover compensation.

If a dog bite occurs, you should first seek medical care. Once the wound has been treated properly, a report should be filed. The protocol for filing a dog bite report in Florida varies from county to county. Reports may be filed with both the county animal control officer or the police depending on your county’s regulations. By filing a report you are creating the helpful documentation your attorneys may use to fight for compensation.

Who Is Liable for Dog Bites?

Unless you provoke the dog or otherwise act carelessly around the animal, the dog’s owner will be liable for any bites you sustain. This liability applies whether you are in public or private, and one of the only things that can absolve a dog owner of liability is a “Bad Dog” sign.

Sadly, children are bitten by dogs far more often than adults. If you are pursuing justice on behalf of your child, liability can apply even if a “Bad Dog” sign was posted.

Liability also applies if someone else’s dog harms your dog (or any domestic animal in your possession) or attacks livestock you have on your property.

The amount of liability we can prove will depend on your specific situation. That’s why our team at Maaswinkel Law, P.A. encourages you to get in touch right away.

Should I Seek Medical Attention?

Yes. You should always seek medical attention after a dog attack, even after a “minor” bite. Dog bites are very prone to infection, so you need to have your wound cleaned and examined by a medical professional. If you cannot get your bite to stop bleeding, you may even need to call 911.

Common dog bite injuries include:

• Cuts and lacerations
• Puncture wounds
• Fractures (from the dog’s jaws or falling down)
• Facial injuries (and disfigurement)
• Nerve damage
• Infection
• Scarring
• Post-traumatic stress disorder



In serious cases, people lose fingers and ears to dog attacks. Sometimes, they are physically and/or emotionally scarred for life.