It seems as if everyone knows someone who has a dog, whether it be a neighbor, friend, or colleague. However, some dogs are more friendly than others, and there is no way to tell when friendly playtime can lead to an accidental bite. Based on the severity of the bite, it can leave the injured individual with long-term physical injuries.
Dog Bites and Animal Attacks are becoming more Common
In 2020 there were 1,235 dog bite claims in the state of Florida, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Florida law makes the dog owner liable for any damages made to another person by the animal. You may be entitled to compensation for an injury from any breed of dog including Pitbulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinchers.
Types of Injuries
A bite or any injury from a dog can lead to prolonged mental and physical injuries. At the time of the accident, it can be challenging to determine how much medical attention will be needed. Should a person receive a facial injury, a plastic surgeon may need a patient to wait before proceeding with augmentative surgery.
However, physical injuries are not the only injuries sustained in animal attacks. Often, there is mental trauma that victims must cope with for the rest of their lives. Any wound from an animal can be terrifying, painful, or life-threatening, leaving the victim with psychological duress or PTSD. Specifically, children can become traumatized from a negative experience with an animal like a dog. It is found that children and young adults who have had an incident with an animal continue to have anxiety when interacting with animals throughout adulthood. Many victims who suffered scarring or disfigurement from the attack have had to face social and professional challenges due to their appearance.
What to do Immediately Following an Animal Attack
Should you be injured by an animal, Florida Health suggests following these three steps:
1. Control the bleeding from the wound if possible.
2. Report the incident to the county health department, animal control, or police.
3. Immediately seek medical attention.
It is essential to seek medical attention following an animal bite, as some severe bites can be life-threatening.
Contact King Law Firm
King Law Firm in Ocala can represent a dog bite victim and individuals with other animal-injury cases. If you or someone you know has been involved in a horse accident, injured by a dog, or attacked by an exotic pet, contact King Law Firm. We fight for the compensation you need to make a full recovery. Our lawyers can aid victims in the Villages, Ocala, or anywhere in Lake or Marion Counties. Dial (352) 269 -1814 or use our contact form to speak with a personal injury attorney.
