What to Do if a Neighbor’s Dog Bites You

A dog bite can cause serious injuries, leading to medical expenses, emotional distress, and potential legal complications. If a neighbor’s dog attacks, understanding your rights is essential to seeking compensation for your injuries. Florida law holds dog owners accountable for the actions of their pets, but insurance companies may attempt to shift blame to avoid paying damages. Taking the right steps immediately after a bite can protect your health and legal rights.

At Neri Law Group, we represent individuals injured by dog attacks and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Seeking Medical Treatment and Documenting the Incident

After a dog bite, medical attention should be the first priority. Even minor wounds can lead to infections, and deep bites may cause nerve damage or require reconstructive procedures. Seeking prompt medical care also provides documentation that links the injury directly to the attack, which is crucial when filing a claim.

Gathering evidence, in addition to medical records, strengthens a case. This includes taking photos of the injury, identifying the dog and its owner, and obtaining witness statements. A police or animal control report can further support the claim. A Bradenton injury lawyer can assess this evidence and determine the best legal course of action.

Florida’s Dog Bite Liability Laws

Florida follows strict liability under Florida Statute 767.04, holding dog owners responsible for bites, even if the dog has no history of aggression. Unlike some states, which require proof of prior attacks, Florida law holds owners accountable regardless of past behavior.

However, Florida’s modified negligence rule (HB 837) bars recovery if an injured person is primarily at fault. If the defendant is partially responsible, compensation is reduced based on fault percentage. Insurers may exploit this rule to limit payouts, making legal representation crucial. A Bradenton negligence attorney can challenge unfair fault claims and pursue rightful compensation.

Filing an Insurance Claim or Lawsuit

Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bite liability, which means victims can seek compensation without requiring the dog owner to pay out of pocket. However, insurers often try to settle claims quickly for less than the injured party deserves. Before accepting an offer, it is essential to review all medical expenses, lost wages, and future costs associated with the injury.

If an insurance settlement is insufficient, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. Compensation in a dog bite case may include:

• Medical bills (including future treatments)
• Lost income from time off work
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent scarring or disability

To strengthen a claim, legal action should be pursued as soon as possible. Our firm’s case results demonstrate our experience in securing settlements for personal injury victims. 

Addressing Liability Disputes in Dog Bite Cases

Even when Florida law holds dog owners strictly liable, insurance companies often try to minimize claims or shift blame onto the victim. They may argue that the injured person provoked the dog or was unlawfully on the property to reduce or deny compensation. Without strong legal representation, victims risk receiving less than they deserve.

Understanding legal protections is crucial for securing a fair settlement. Thorough documentation, including medical records, witness statements, and incident reports, can help counter these tactics. If an insurer disputes liability or offers an unfair settlement, a Bradenton personal injury attorney can provide the legal support needed to hold them accountable and pursue rightful compensation.

Overcoming Insurance Challenges After a Dog Bite

Dog bite injuries can have lasting consequences, and insurance companies may attempt to reduce or deny compensation. Seeking legal representation can help protect your rights and ensure a fair recovery. Neri Law Group is committed to advocating for dog bite victims and securing the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case.