Best Animal & Dog Injury Lawyers in Kissimmee
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List of the best lawyers in Kissimmee, United States
About Animal & Dog Injury Law in Kissimmee, United States
Animal and Dog Injury Law in Kissimmee, United States primarily revolves around personal injury laws. Specifically, when an animal, most usually a dog, injures a person, their owner can be held legally accountable. This area of law seeks to provide compensation for any injuries sustained from an animal encounter and can include not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma. A victim may seek damages for medical expenses, pain, suffering, and even lost wages as a result of an animal attack.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Having a lawyer when dealing with Animal & Dog Injury cases can be vital. An experienced lawyer will help to navigate the complexities of legal procedures and strengthen your claim. If you or a loved one has been injured by an animal attack, a lawyer can assist in obtaining rightful compensation. This may be particularly useful if you're unfamiliar with Floridaโs personal injury laws or if the animalโs owner is disputing your claim.
Local Laws Overview
In Kissimmee, Florida, as per the state's dog bite statute (Florida Statute ยง 767.04), dog owners are held responsible for injuries their dogs cause. This liability is strict and remains regardless of the dog's past aggression or the owner's knowledge of such aggression. However, if the victim was partly at fault, such as provoking the dog, their compensation may be reduced. This falls under Florida's comparative negligence doctrine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I was bitten while on the owner's property?
Florida's liability laws still apply. A dogโs owner can still be held accountable unless the dog was provoked or if there was a clearly visible warning sign on the property.
What if the dog did not bite me, but I was injured anyway?
Dog owners can also be held liable for injuries caused in other ways, such a dog knocking you over and resulting in an injury.
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the dog attack?
Yes, Florida operates under a comparative negligence basis. However, your compensation might be reduced by the percentage of your contribution to the event.
What if the dog has never been aggressive before?
Under Florida law, previous aggression doesn't impact the owner's liability. Even if the dog has never been violent before, the owner is still responsible for injuries.
Can my landlord be held responsible for a tenant's dog attacking me?
In certain situations, landlords can also be held liable. If the landlord was aware of the dog's dangerous nature and could have taken measures to avert a foreseeable harm, they may be held responsible for the dogโs attack.
Additional Resources
The following resources may be useful for further research and assistance:
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles - for related injuries in motor accidents caused by animals.
- Florida Department of Financial Services - to guide you regarding insurance claims.
- The Florida Bar - for legal assistance and attorney search.
Next Steps
If you have experienced an Animal & Dog Injury in Kissimmee, it's crucial to obtain legal assistance at the earliest. Contact a trusted Animal & Dog Injury lawyer in Kissimmee, gather any related evidence you may have for the lawyer to review, such as medical records, and document the injury in photographs as soon as possible.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.