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Orlando Dog Bite Lawyer
We prioritize our clients, ensuring their needs are met every step of the way. Our dedication guarantees your satisfaction; we persist until we achieve it. Plus, we handle claims on contingency, so there’s no upfront cost to you.
A dog bite or animal attack can be a terrifying and traumatic experience, often resulting in severe physical injuries, permanent scarring, and lasting emotional distress. In Florida, dog owners are held to a high standard of responsibility for the actions of their pets. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Orlando, Winter Park, Kissimmee, or anywhere in Central Florida, you need an experienced Orlando dog bite lawyer who understands Florida’s strict liability laws and is committed to fighting for your recovery. At Campione Law, P.A., we specialize in animal attack litigation, aggressively pursuing compensation from negligent owners and their insurance companies.
Founded by Christopher D. Campione, Esq., our firm brings a relentless, litigation-focused approach to every case. We understand the physical and psychological toll a dog bite can take, especially on children. We work to hold irresponsible owners accountable and ensure that victims receive the medical care and financial support they need to move forward. Whether the attack happened in a public park like Lake Eola or on private property in a residential neighborhood, we are here to fight for your rights.
Wrongful Death · Pedestrian Accidents · Auto Accidents · Medical Malpractice · & MOre
Understanding Dog Bite Law in Florida
Florida is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. According to Florida Statutes § 767.04, a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites another person, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any viciousness. This means you do not have to prove the owner was negligent in how they handled the dog; the fact that the bite occurred is often enough to establish liability. However, the owner’s liability can be reduced by the percentage of the victim’s own negligence (comparative negligence).
Common Injuries from Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
Dog bites can cause a wide range of serious injuries, including:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations: Deep tears in the skin and muscle tissue.
- Infections: Risk of rabies, pasteurella, MRSA, and other dangerous bacteria.
- Nerve damage: Loss of sensation or motor function in the affected area.
- Fractures and broken bones: Especially in the hands, arms, and face.
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement: Often requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries.
- Psychological trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and a lifelong fear of dogs.
- Eye injuries: Potential for permanent vision loss or blindness.
Florida Law Governing Dog Owner Responsibility
In addition to strict liability for bites, Florida law also addresses other animal-related injuries:
- Florida Statutes § 767.01: Owners are liable for any damage done by their dogs to persons, domestic animals, or livestock.
- Strict Liability Exceptions: Liability may be limited if the owner had a prominent “Bad Dog” sign posted, unless the victim is under age 6 or the owner was otherwise negligent.
- Landlord Liability: In some cases, a landlord may be held liable if they knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to take action.
- Local Ordinances: Orlando and Orange County have specific leash laws and dangerous dog classifications that can impact your case.
What Damages Dog Bite Victims May Recover
Under Florida law, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Emergency room visits, surgeries, skin grafts, antibiotics, and future scar revision procedures.
- Lost wages: Income lost while recovering from your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and the emotional trauma of the attack.
- Disfigurement: Specific damages for permanent scars and physical changes.
- Psychological counseling: Therapy for PTSD or anxiety related to the attack.
Insurance Coverage for Dog Bite Claims
Most dog bite claims are paid through the owner’s homeowners’ insurance or renters’ insurance. However, some policies have “breed exclusions” that may complicate the recovery process. Our legal team investigates all available insurance coverage to ensure you have a source of recovery. If the owner is uninsured, we explore other legal avenues to hold them personally accountable.
Why Hiring an Orlando Dog Bite Lawyer Matters
Insurance companies often try to blame the victim or downplay the severity of the injuries. An experienced attorney from Campione Law will:
- Investigate the attack: Gathering witness statements, animal control records, and photos of the scene.
- Document injuries: Working with medical experts to demonstrate the long-term impact of scarring and trauma.
- Identify liable parties: Determining if a landlord, property manager, or other entity shares responsibility.
- Negotiate with insurers: Fighting for a settlement that covers all your needs, not just the initial medical bills.
- Take your case to trial: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Orlando
- Seek medical attention immediately: Even minor-looking bites can become severely infected.
- Identify the dog and owner: Get the owner’s name, contact info, and insurance details.
- Report the bite to Animal Control: This creates an official record and helps prevent future attacks.
- Take photos: Document your injuries, the dog, and the location of the attack.
- Get witness information: Collect names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the incident.
- Do not sign anything: Avoid giving statements to the owner’s insurance company until you’ve consulted a lawyer.
- Contact Campione Law: For a free evaluation of your case.
There are no upfront costs to get started
CAMPIONE CARES
CAMPIONE CARES
How Campione Law Helps Dog Bite Victims
Campione Law, P.A., founded by Christopher D. Campione, Esq., brings an aggressive, litigation-focused approach to dog bite cases. We serve clients throughout Florida from our Jacksonville headquarters, with a dedicated focus on Orlando-area injury victims. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We have extensive experience holding negligent pet owners accountable and securing maximum compensation for victims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Florida’s “One Bite Rule”?
Florida does NOT have a “one bite rule.” Owners are strictly liable for the first time their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
What if the owner has a “Bad Dog” sign?
A “Bad Dog” sign can sometimes protect an owner from strict liability, but not if the victim is under 6 years old or if the owner was otherwise negligent.
Can I sue if a dog knocked me down but didn’t bite me?
Yes. Under Florida Statutes § 767.01, owners are liable for any damage or injury caused by their dogs, including knocking someone over.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?
In Florida, you generally have four years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Will the dog be put down if I file a claim?
Not necessarily. Filing a civil claim for damages is separate from criminal or animal control proceedings. Animal control determines the fate of the dog based on local ordinances and the dog’s history.
Internal Link Suggestions
- Orlando Personal Injury Lawyer
- Orlando Premises Liability Lawyer
- Orlando Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
- Orlando Wrongful Death Lawyer
Contact Campione Law, P.A. Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite or animal attack in Orlando, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Campione Law, P.A., for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us at 904-990-8400 or email [email protected]. We fight for maximum compensation—you pay nothing unless we win.
Your health and future well-being are on the line and we know that. Call us at (904) 990-8400
