Dog Bite Attorney in Brandon

Get Clear Guidance After a Dog Attack From a Brandon Firm Established in 1988

A dog attack can cause puncture wounds, lacerations, infection, nerve damage, scarring, and emotional distress. Prioritize your safety and seek medical care, even if the injury initially appears minor.

Once your immediate needs are addressed, preserve information about the incident. Photographs, medical records, witness details, and information about the dog and its owner may become important evidence. Keep track of related expenses and any work you miss because of the injury.

We represent people injured by dog bites and related attacks. We begin by reviewing what happened, where the incident occurred, and what treatment the injury requires. We can then explain how Florida law may apply and what information could support a claim.

Call (813) 305-0353 to discuss the attack with our team and get clear guidance about your next steps.

Florida Liability After a Dog Attack

Florida Statutes section 767.04 generally holds a dog owner liable when the animal bites someone in a public place or while that person is lawfully on private property. This rule applies regardless of whether the dog had previously acted viciously or the owner knew it might bite. Often called strict liability, the rule generally doesn’t require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

The facts still matter. If the injured person’s negligence contributed to the incident, the owner’s liability may be reduced by that person’s percentage of fault. A prominently displayed sign containing the words Bad Dog may also limit liability, although the statute includes exceptions for children under age six and injuries caused by the owner’s negligent act or omission.

Section 767.04 applies to bites, but other legal principles may apply when a charging dog causes someone to fall or suffer another non-bite injury.

What to Do After a Dog Attack in Brandon

Early medical care can address infection concerns and create a record of the injury and treatment. After attending to your immediate health needs, take reasonable steps to preserve evidence.

Useful steps may include:

• Photograph the injuries: Take clear pictures soon after the incident and as the wounds change.
• Document the location: Preserve images of gates, fences, warning signs, and other relevant conditions.
• Identify witnesses: Record names and contact information for anyone who saw the incident or its aftermath.
• Save records: Keep medical documents, bills, income records, messages with the owner, and available insurance details.
• Report the attack: Hillsborough County Animal Control receives reports involving animal bites and dangerous dogs.

Use care when speaking with an insurer or property owner. Don’t minimize your injuries or speculate about fault before the medical and legal facts are clear. An incomplete early statement could affect how an insurance claim is evaluated later.