If you were recently the victim of a vicious dog attack, there is a good chance that you suffered serious injuries. From bite-related injuries to harm sustained in a fall during the attack, if you needed medical attention following an encounter with a dangerous dog, you are not alone.
Each year, countless unsuspecting individuals in Palm Beach County and throughout get seriously injured in attacks involving dangerous dogs. While dogs are man’s best friend, they are still animals, and they can be easily spooked or harbor vicious propensities. Due to these risks, Florida law makes dog owners strictly liable for any injuries resulting from a dog bite attack. This means that a dog’s owner can be held financially liable for a bite victim’s injuries regardless of whether the owner either (i) knew the dog was dangerous, or (ii) was negligent in allowing the attack to occur.
Of course, this does not mean that it is easy for victims to recover the compensation that they deserve. With this in mind, here are five steps that you can take after a dog attack in Palm Beach County to help protect your legal rights:
Five Steps to Take After a Dog Attack in Palm Beach County
1. Try to Find Out Where the Dog Lives.
In order to seek compensation, you will need to be able to identify the dog’s owner. If you were attacked at a party or on your own street, this may be pretty easy. If you were attacked somewhere else, you may need the help of witnesses or local residents to help you determine where the dog lives. At Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers, we can investigate for you if you aren’t able to identify the owner at the time of the attack.
2. See a Doctor Right Away.
One of the most important things that you can do is to see a doctor right away. You need to get professional treatment for your injuries, and your medical records will be important evidence in your claim for financial compensation.
3. Learn Your Rights.
After any type of accident, it is important to learn your legal rights. To make this easy, we have published a number of video FAQs. Here, you will find answers to questions like:
- Can I get compensated from a dog bite?
- How much is my case worth?
- How long do I have to bring a claim?
Importantly, dog owners’ home insurance policies will often cover dog bite injuries. If the dog’s owner provides you with his or her insurance information, you should let your attorney deal with the insurance company for you so that you can be sure you are seeking maximum compensation.
4. Take Note of How Your Injuries Affect Your Life.
Did you miss time from work due to your injuries? Did you miss your kid’s soccer game or recital? Are you now afraid to be around your own dog? These are all consequences that could factor into your financial recovery.
5. Speak with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney.
Finally, when it comes to protecting your rights, there is no substitute for speaking with a qualified attorney. At Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers, we will handle your claim from start to finish, providing VIP treatment as we help you Demand More® for your losses.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
To learn more your rights in a free and confidential consultation, call at 561-202-6673 or tell what happened online today. If you have a claim for a dog bite in Palm Beach County, we will fight aggressively to win the compensation that you deserve.
Were you or a loved one injured in an accident?
The law offices of Brian D. Guralnick help Florida residents and tourists seek compensation and Demand More? for their injuries.
