Dog Bite Lawyer
Determined Florida attorneys seek full compensation for vicious attacks
Since 1976, The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. had provided professional and compassionate legal services for victims of dog bites and mauling. We know from experience that dog bites can cause severe injuries, especially to small children and the elderly, including:
- Broken or crushed bones
- Hemorrhage
- Loss of an extremity
- Muscle, tendon and ligament damage
- Nerve damage
- Rabies and other infections
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Skin Lacerations and puncture
- Wrongful death
Florida ranks high for frequency and severity of dog attacks
In 2012, one of the nation’s largest insurance companies, State Farm, ranked Florida number eight among states in the number of dog bite claims the company settled with 123, and number three in the overall cost of settlements at $7.1 million. Contact our experienced dog bite lawyers for immediate assistance.Many factors can explain why Florida ranks so high for the number of dog bite claims and the cost of settlement. Our state is populous, so there are many dog owners. Hot weather can make dogs irritable and unpredictable. There is also a trend toward desiring large breed, aggressive dogs, which, in its worst manifestation, results in brutal exhibitions of dog fighting. Fortunately, Florida law holds dog owners liable for damages regardless of the dog’s prior behavior.
Florida law makes dog owners responsible without a history of viciousness
Florida law provides that the owner of a dog is liable for personal injury claims and property damage that occurs when a dog bites any person in a public place or on a private property, including the owner’s property, when the victim has a legal right to be there.The owner is not excused if the dog has no record of viciousness or if the owner was unaware of prior viciousness. However, Florida’s comparative negligence statute still applies. So, if the victim’s negligence caused the biting incident, a court shall reduce the owner’s liability in proportion to the victim’s fault for the incident. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help rebut allegations of contributive negligence to better ensure you receive full compensation for your losses.
Let our dog bite lawyers manage your injury case
A dog attack can be terribly frightening, and leave physical and emotional scars. If you or a loved one has suffered a vicious dog attack, The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. provides determined legal representation to obtain the maximum compensation possible. Call us today at 813-217-5715 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.