Reputable Dog Bite Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
Recovering from a dog bite can be a challenging journey, both physically and emotionally. As you focus on healing and regaining your sense of security, you may wonder whether you have legal options. Here’s some good news: you do.
At Meldon Law, we understand the complexities involved in dog bite claims, and we are here to guide you through the financial recovery process. Our Fort Lauderdale dog bite lawyers will fight tirelessly to recover the costs associated with your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You don’t have to face this alone. Call us today to begin a free case review.
Recoverable Damages: Seeking Compensation for Your Dog Bite Injury
After suffering a dog bite, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. At Meldon Law, our Fort Lauderdale dog bite lawyers are dedicated to helping dog bite survivors seek the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one suffered a dog attack, it is important to know your rights and the potential recoverable damages available.
How Much Compensation Will I Get?
The amount of compensation you may receive for your dog bite injury will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, and time missed from work. Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys can thoroughly evaluate your case to determine your recoverable losses, then fight to secure what you need.
Types of Damages Available
The damages available in dog bite cases vary. Yet, your settlement could include compensation for losses like:
- Medical expenses. Compensation for current and future medical bills related to your dog bite injuries, including surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and therapy
- Lost wages. Reimbursement for the income you have lost due to your injuries, as well as compensation for any future loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering. Compensation for the physical and emotional pain, trauma, and psychological distress caused by the dog bite
- Property damage. If your personal property was damaged during the attack, such as glasses or clothing
Our dog bite lawyers can pursue all types of compensation available in your claim.
Why Work With Meldon Law on Your Fort Lauderdale Dog Bite Case?
When it comes to dog bite cases, Meldon Law stands out among other law firms. We don’t see you as another case number; we’re committed to providing personalized legal representation to dog bite claimants in Broward County.
You should consider partnering with us because we offer:
- Decades of experience. Our team of attorneys has over 50 years of experience handling personal injury claims in Florida, and we will apply our knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Investigative resources. We will gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and any available video footage, to establish liability and strengthen your claim.
- Skilled negotiators. We will handle all communications with the insurance company, using our negotiation skills to pursue a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
- Aggressive representation. If we can’t reach a fair settlement, our attorneys prepare to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
How We Support Your Dog Bite Injury Case
Our Fort Lauderdale dog bite lawyers will guide you through the legal process, handling every aspect of your case while you focus on your recovery.
We will:
- Investigate the incident. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and establish liability.
- Calculate your damages. We will assess the full extent of your losses to determine the fair and just compensation you deserve.
- Negotiate with insurance companies. Our lawyers will negotiate with the insurance company to seek a favorable settlement that covers your expenses and reflects the true value of your case.
- Take your claim to court, if necessary. If the insurer won’t settle, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
At Meldon Law, we take care of you from start to finish. You can focus on getting better while we handle everything else.
We’re Motivated by the Feedback Our Previous Clients Share
At Meldon Law, we are proud of our successful track record in handling dog bite cases. Our clients love us because of our commitment to providing an exceptional experience and never backing down from a challenge.
Here are some things they had to say about us:
- “Hands down the best law firm!!! True to their word, They won’t back down!”
- “My team with Meldon Law was awesome and were really helpful during a difficult time in my life. They showed how much they cared and took their time to explain the process to me. I’m happy I chose them to help me with my case.”
- “Meldon Law has a great reputation for a reason.”
Helping injured people recover and seek compensation isn’t just our job; it’s our calling. We put you first in everything we do—from negotiations to settlements. Don’t settle for anything less when it comes to your claim. Let Meldon Law take care of everything.
Statute of Limitations and Laws for Dog Bite Cases in Florida
You don’t have to understand the state’s laws to recover damages in a dog bite case. Our lawyers are graduates from some of the country’s most honored universities. To fully understand your options moving forward, here are some laws that apply to your injury case:
Your Case Comes With a Legal Filing Deadline
You must file your dog bite lawsuit within two years of the injury. This deadline is called the “statute of limitations.” Failing to meet the deadline could negatively affect your right to compensation. We recommend consulting with our Fort Lauderdale dog bite lawyers to ensure compliance with these time limits.
Florida Has a Strict Liability System for Dog Bites
Florida follows a strict liability standard for dog bite cases, meaning that the owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether they were negligent or aware of the dog’s dangerous propensities. Additionally, if the dog was unleashed in violation of Fort Lauderdale or Broward County leash laws, it can strengthen your case against the owner.
Our Team Must Prove These Legal Elements
To successfully prove your dog bite claim in Fort Lauderdale, it is crucial to establish the following three key elements:
- Presence on public property. You must demonstrate that you were lawfully present on public or private property at the time of the dog bite incident.
- Dog owner’s liability. Under Florida Statute § 767.04, the dog owner is liable for damages caused by their pet, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of such behavior.
- Absence of provocation. It is important to show that you did not provoke the dog or engage in any actions that could be considered a proximate cause of the biting incident. Your behavior should not have contributed to the dog’s aggressive response.
Florida takes dog bite cases seriously, and so do we. At Meldon Law, our attorneys know how to prove your case’s required elements, helping you build a solid claim.
How to Protect Your Rights After a Dog Bite in Fort Lauderdale
After suffering a dog bite in Fort Lauderdale, these steps could protect your well-being and legal rights:
- Get immediate medical attention. Your health and safety should be the priority. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even for seemingly minor injuries.
- Report the incident. Contact the local animal control department or law enforcement agency to report the dog bite incident. Provide them with all relevant details, including the location, description of the dog, and any available information about the owner.
- Gather evidence. If possible, gather evidence at the scene of the incident. Take photographs of your injuries, the location, and any visible signs of negligence, such as a broken fence or lack of signage.
- Obtain witness statements. If there were witnesses to the dog bite, obtain their contact information and ask them to provide statements regarding what they saw. Their testimonies can strengthen your case.
- Preserve medical records. Keep records of all medical treatments, medications, and expenses related to your injuries. This documentation will be vital for establishing the extent of your damages.
- Consult with a dog bite lawyer. The dog bite lawyers at Meldon Law can review your case. They can also provide valuable legal guidance, evaluate the circumstances, and help determine a suitable course of action.
Once the insurance companies get involved, they scrutinize everything you say and do. Refrain from making statements about the case or speaking with the insurance company without consulting our attorneys. Let us protect your rights.
Contact Meldon Law for a Free Case Review Today
If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite injury, you deserve a compassionate and skilled legal team on your side. Meldon Law is here to provide the support and representation you want during this difficult time.
Let us be your advocates in seeking justice and fair compensation for your dog bite injuries. Our lawyers are ready to evaluate your case and provide you with a clear understanding of your legal options. Call us today for a free case review.
