Experienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Atlantic Beach, FL
Dedicated Dog Bite Injury Attorneys Serving Atlantic Beach, FL
Dog bite injuries can have serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a dog attack in Atlantic Beach, Florida, securing legal representation is crucial. At Jimenez Law Firm, P.A., our skilled personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping victims recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Florida operates under a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner is typically held responsible for any injuries their pet causes, regardless of whether the dog had shown previous signs of aggression. According to Florida Statute 767.04, a dog owner is liable for damages if their pet bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property.
Additionally, Florida law does not require victims to prove that the dog owner was negligent. However, there are exceptions to this rule:
- If the victim was trespassing at the time of the attack.
- If the victim provoked the dog.
- If the owner had clear warning signs, such as a “Beware of Dog” sign.
What Compensation Can You Receive for a Dog Bite Injury?
Victims of dog bite attacks in Atlantic Beach may be entitled to compensation that covers:
- Medical Bills – Treatment costs for emergency care, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages – If you had to take time off work due to the injury.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and long-term distress.
- Permanent Disfigurement – If the bite results in scarring or other permanent injuries.
- Punitive Damages – In cases where the dog owner exhibited reckless or intentional misconduct.
Common Dog Bite Injuries and Their Impact
Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from minor scratches to life-threatening conditions. Some of the most common injuries include:
1. Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
- Deep wounds from a dog’s teeth can lead to excessive bleeding and require stitches or surgery.
- According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 dog bites becomes infected due to bacteria in a dog’s mouth.
2. Nerve Damage and Tissue Injuries
- Severe bites can lead to nerve damage, resulting in loss of sensation or function in affected areas.
- In extreme cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary.
3. Infections and Rabies Risk
- Bacteria from a dog’s saliva, such as Pasteurella or Capnocytophaga, can cause serious infections if not treated promptly.
- Rabies remains a rare but deadly risk, especially if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown.
4. Emotional and Psychological Trauma
- Many victims suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or develop a lifelong fear of dogs.
- Children are particularly vulnerable, with over 50% of all dog bite victims being under the age of 14 (American Veterinary Medical Association).
If you or a loved one has sustained these injuries, our dog bite attorneys can help you recover damages for medical care and emotional suffering.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Atlantic Beach, FL
If you’ve been attacked by a dog, following these steps can strengthen your case and protect your health:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even minor wounds can lead to infections.
- Identify the Dog and Its Owner – Get the owner’s contact information and verify the dog’s vaccination history.
- Report the Incident – File a report with Duval County Animal Control to document the attack.
- Gather Evidence – Take pictures of injuries, document the scene, and collect witness statements.
- Consult a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer – An attorney can help you file a claim and seek compensation for damages.
Dog Bite Statistics in Florida and Atlantic Beach
- Florida ranks 2nd in the U.S. for dog bite insurance claims, with an average claim value of $52,000 (Insurance Information Institute).
- Over 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. annually, and 800,000 require medical attention (CDC).
- Children are the most common victims, accounting for nearly 60% of all serious dog bite injuries (American Humane Society).
PRACTICE AREAS
Why Choose Jimenez Law Firm for Your Dog Bite Injury Case
- Proven Track Record – Our attorneys have successfully recovered compensation for dog bite victims across Florida.
- Aggressive Legal Representation – We negotiate with insurance companies and litigate cases when necessary.
- Free Consultations & No Fees Unless We Win – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Atlantic Beach, don’t wait—contact us today for a free case evaluation.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Atlantic Beach, take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention to prevent infections or complications.
- Identify the dog and owner, if possible, to confirm vaccination records.
- Report the bite to Duval County Animal Control or local authorities.
- Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the incident.
- Consult with a dog bite lawyer to understand your legal options.
Yes. Florida follows strict liability laws, meaning dog owners are responsible for bites, even if the dog has never bitten before. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and long-term rehabilitation costs.
The amount depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, and emotional trauma. Severe cases requiring reconstructive surgery or long-term therapy may result in higher settlements. A dog bite attorney in Atlantic Beach can evaluate your case and help you pursue fair compensation.
In most cases, the dog owner is liable, even if the incident occurred on their property. However, liability may vary if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog. Consulting with an attorney can help determine fault in your case.
Florida law considers comparative negligence, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you were partially at fault. However, most dog bite cases favor the victim, especially if there is no clear evidence of provocation.
In some cases, landlords may be liable if they knew a tenant had a dangerous dog and failed to take action. If the dog has a history of aggression, the landlord may share responsibility.
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
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