Dog Bites

Dogs are considered man’s best friend, but dangerous dogs are a public menace and an increasingly widespread problem. Each year, more than 800,000 Americans seek medical attention for dog bites, and the rate of injuries is highest among children ages 5 to 9 years old. The owner of a dog that bites any person lawfully visiting the property of the dog owner or in a public place may be legally liable for dog bite injuries.

If you or a family member has been attacked by a dog, it’s important to understand whether the dog’s owner should be held responsible for your injury. Talk to a caring Florida dog bite injury lawyer to understand your legal rights. I am attorney Philip DeBerard. I have more than three decades of experience helping individuals and families recover from serious injuries caused by the negligence of others, including vicious dog attacks and dog bites. The law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, concentrates on helping dog bite victims in South Florida and the Treasure Coast.

If you or a family member has been seriously injured by a dog bite, call (877) 536-1911 to speak with a respected South Florida personal injury attorney, or fill out our online contact form.

What You Need to Know about Dog Bites

In Florida, the owner of a dog that bites any person lawfully visiting the property of the dog owner or in a public place is liable for the injuries suffered by the dog bite victim. The dog owner is legally responsible even if they had no prior knowledge of the dog’s viciousness. Under Florida law, dog bites result from the failure of the owner to confine, properly train and control their dog. Some careless actions by the dog bite victim may reduce the dog owner’s liability.

The incidence of dog bite injuries is highest for children ages 5 to 9 years old. Approximately two-thirds of dog bite injuries to children four years and younger are to the head and neck. Infants and very young children should never be left alone with dogs. Dog owners may be held liable for dog attacks on small children even if the child taunted or baited the dog before the attack.

Owners of dogs previously reported as dangerous may face criminal misdemeanor charges if the dangerous dog bites or attacks another person. The dangerous dog owner can be held civilly liable as well for the vicious dog.

Contact a Knowledgeable South Florida Dog Attack Attorney

Holding a dog owner responsible for a dog bite injury or dog attack may help prevent others from being bitten by the dog. It’s important to understand your rights after a serious dog bite or dog attack.

I am attorney Philip DeBerard. For more than three decades, I have focused my legal practice on representing victims of serious accidents and personal injuries caused by the negligence of others. My legal skill has received the highest AV preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the most recognized national legal directory.

I take pride in leading a team of hard-working attorneys, paralegals and staff who provide caring, one-on-one service to clients across South Florida and the Treasure Coast. The law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, will evaluate your dog bite injury case at no charge and offer guidance. If we go to work for you, we will not charge any attorney fee unless we secure compensation for you. We represent victims of dog bite accidents and dog attacks in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Jupiter,  Okeechobee, Palm Beach and Vero Beach.

Call (877) 536-1911 to speak with a respected Florida personal injury attorney, or fill out our online contact form.