A dog bite can change your life in an instant. What may start as a quick encounter with an animal can leave lasting physical injuries, emotional scars, and financial burdens.
Dog bite injuries are serious; they often require emergency care, surgeries, and long-term treatment. Victims are left with not only medical bills but also the stress of missed work and emotional trauma.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyer is here to protect the rights of victims across Cocoa Beach and all of Brevard County.
We fight tirelessly to hold negligent dog owners accountable and secure fair compensation for our clients. We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us today at (321) 44-SHARK to speak with a member of our Cocoa Beach personal injury team.
Why Choose Our Cocoa Beach Dog Bite Lawyer
When you’ve been injured by a dog, choosing the right dog bite lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Our firm stands out for several reasons:
- Experience in personal injury and dog bite cases – With years of handling injury claims, including those caused by dog attacks, we understand how to build strong cases that result in meaningful compensation.
- Knowledge of Florida law and Brevard County courts – Dog bite claims are governed by Florida’s strict statutes, and local knowledge is critical. Our Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyer knows how the courts here operate and how insurance companies try to minimize payouts.
- Proven results – Our record includes numerous successful settlements and verdicts for injured clients across the county. We know what it takes to maximize recovery.
- Compassionate, client-first representation – We know how traumatic these incidents can be, especially for children. We treat every client with empathy, respect, and personal attention.
With a Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyer at DeGraff Hicks Law Group, you can feel confident that you have an advocate who cares about your recovery as much as your case.
Florida Dog Bite Laws: What You Need to Know
Unlike many states, Florida has a strict liability law for dog bites. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is liable for the injuries.
Key points to understand about Florida’s dog bite laws include:
- Strict liability: Dog owners are held liable regardless of prior knowledge of the dog’s behavior.
- Victims’ rights: If you were bitten in a public place or lawfully on private property, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Owner responsibilities: Owners must control their dogs and are responsible for damages if the dog causes harm.
- Exceptions: Compensation may be limited if the victim was trespassing or if the dog was provoked.
It’s also important to distinguish between strict liability claims and negligence claims. While strict liability does not require proving fault, a negligence claim can be pursued if an owner failed to take reasonable care to prevent the bite, such as ignoring leash laws or prior warnings about the dog’s aggression.
Call our experienced Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyers today to review your case.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can cause far more than superficial wounds. Victims often face injuries that require extensive medical care and long-term treatment.
Some of the most common dog bite injuries include:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations: Dog teeth can tear through skin, muscle, and tissue, leading to deep wounds that may require stitches or surgery.
- Infections and rabies concerns: Dog bites carry a high risk of infection, including dangerous conditions such as tetanus or rabies. Immediate medical attention is critical.
- Nerve damage and scarring: Severe bites may damage nerves, resulting in loss of sensation or mobility, and permanent scarring that affects appearance.
- Emotional trauma: Children are particularly vulnerable to long-term psychological harm, including anxiety, fear of animals, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
These injuries illustrate why dog bite claims should never be taken lightly. Consult with a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer near you about your case today.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyers fight to recover full and fair compensation for dog bite victims in Cocoa Beach and Brevard County.
Depending on your case, damages may include:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment – From emergency room visits to surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity – If you miss work or cannot return to your job, you deserve compensation for your financial losses.
- Pain and suffering – Dog bites are physically painful and emotionally draining.
- Emotional distress and PTSD – Particularly in children, but also in adults, the psychological impact of an attack can be profound.
- Future medical care or cosmetic surgery – Many victims require long-term treatment, including reconstructive surgery to reduce scarring.
Our dog bite lawyers strive is to ensure you are not left to shoulder the financial and emotional burden of someone else’s negligence.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Cocoa Beach
The steps you take immediately after a dog bite can have a significant impact on your health and your legal claim.
Here’s what to do:
- Seek medical attention immediately – Even minor bites can become infected quickly. Prompt care also creates an important medical record.
- Report the incident to Brevard County Animal Services – This helps ensure the dog is identified and reduces risks to others.
- Document your injuries – Take photos of wounds, torn clothing, and any property damage. Keep copies of medical records and receipts.
- Gather witness information – Eyewitness accounts can be crucial in proving the circumstances of the attack.
- Contact a dog bite lawyer – Contact a qualified Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyer before talking to insurance companies, who often try to minimize payouts.
How We Help You
At Degraff Hicks Law Group, we provide comprehensive support for dog bite victims.
Our legal services include:
- Investigating the dog’s history – We determine whether the dog has a record of prior incidents or dangerous behavior.
- Working with medical experts – To fully assess the impact of your injuries and the cost of future care.
- Negotiating with insurers – We push back against lowball offers and fight for maximum compensation.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary – If insurance companies refuse to be fair, we are ready to take your case to court.
- Clear communication – We guide you step by step, so you always know what to expect and feel supported throughout the process.
Our dog bite lawyers’ role is to handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
FAQs About Dog Bite Claims in Florida
What if the dog never bit anyone before?
Florida’s strict liability law means the owner is still responsible, even if this was the dog’s first bite.
Can I sue if the dog’s owner is a friend or family member?
Yes. Claims are typically covered by homeowner’s insurance, so your case can often be resolved without directly impacting personal finances.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Florida?
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Florida is generally two years from the date of the injury. It’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Will the dog be put down if I file a claim?
Filing a claim does not automatically result in the dog being euthanized. Animal Services may take separate action if the dog is deemed dangerous, but your claim is focused on compensating you for your injuries.
Your Recovery Starts With a Free Consultation With a Skilled Cocoa Beach Dog Bite Lawyer
The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone.
At Degraff Hicks Law Group, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of dog bite victims in Cocoa Beach and throughout Brevard County. We will fight tirelessly to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (321) 44-SHARK for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case. Let our Cocoa Beach dog bite lawyer stand by your side and help you take the next step toward recovery.
