At Meldon Law, we know that a dog bite can change your life in an instant. Medical bills, time away from work, and emotional trauma often follow a serious attack. When you or a loved one suffers from a dog attack, our dog bite attorneys in Orlando, Florida, can protect your rights under Florida law and take the steps necessary to secure maximum compensation for your losses.
Our law firm has been representing clients in Florida since 1971. For over 50 years, we have dedicated ourselves to helping injured individuals hold others accountable. Call us today for a free case consultation. Our Orlando personal injury lawyers can help you and your family recover.
Compensation for Your Medical Care and Personal Losses
Dog bites can cause severe injuries that often require immediate and ongoing medical care. Whether you seek treatment at Orlando Health or a local urgent care clinic, these injuries can have long-term consequences, from physical scars to emotional trauma.
Some of the most common injuries from dog bites include:
- Puncture wounds
- Infections
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Broken bones from being knocked down
- Eye injuries
- Amputations in severe cases
Beyond physical harm, many victims deal with anxiety or post-traumatic stress after the attack. These impacts are real, and they are important when calculating compensation in a claim.
Dog bite victims in Orlando may be entitled to a wide range of compensation. The specific damages depend on the injuries and their impact on daily life, but often include:
- Medical expenses, both current and future
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
We do not rush cases to quick settlements. In fact, we limit the number of cases we manage so that we can give every client the personalized attention they deserve. Limiting cases does not mean limiting our knowledge or experience; it means focusing our efforts where they matter most: on your needs.
Understanding Dog Bite Cases in Florida
Florida law follows strict liability for dog bites. Under this legal doctrine, dog owners are responsible when their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Victims do not have to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
At the same time, other factors can affect your case:
You Have a Limited Amount of Time to Take Legal Action
Florida law imposes a statute of limitations on dog bite claims. Victims must file their personal injury lawsuit with the Orange County courts within two years of the date of the bite. If this legal deadline expires, the case will be barred from the courts, and they may lose the right to pursue compensation.
Your Actions May Affect Your Claim
Florida also follows a comparative negligence rule. If a victim’s actions contributed to the bite, for example, if they provoked the dog, the compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned.
We Protect Your Rights
Insurance companies may try to blame you for the attack to minimize what they owe. Our attorneys know how to prove negligence in your case and how to determine liability so that you can pursue the full amount you deserve.
How We Handle Dog Bite Cases in Orlando
Every dog bite case is different, but our approach always begins with a thorough investigation. We gather medical records, interview witnesses, and collect evidence from the scene. We deal with insurance companies directly, negotiating for fair settlements. If the insurer refuses to act reasonably, we prepare the case for trial.
We also know that clients may be dealing with difficult recoveries. We have visited clients in hospitals to ensure they receive the support they need from day one. Our bilingual staff helps clients in the language they are most comfortable using.
Meldon Law has represented clients across Florida for decades, and we bring that same commitment to every dog bite victim in Orlando who turns to us for help.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Orlando
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can make a significant difference in both your recovery and your legal case. Here’s what we advise dog bite victims to do:
- Call 911 or the Orlando Police Department if the bite is severe or if the dog poses a continuing threat.
- Seek immediate medical care at a nearby hospital or urgent care clinic. Prompt treatment can prevent infections and create vital medical records.
- Report the incident to the Orange County Animal Services, which investigates animal-related complaints.
- Collect evidence, including photos of your injuries, details about the dog and its owner, and names of any witnesses.
- Contact Meldon Law to discuss your legal options.
The sooner you act, the stronger your case may be.
Call to Action
At Meldon Law, we believe that clients deserve more than just legal representation. We take time to explain the legal process and keep clients informed at every stage. Our attorneys dedicate their careers to helping people recover after injuries, and we treat each case as more than just a file number.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Orlando, contact us today. We have offices across Florida, and our team is ready to meet you where you need us.
Call Meldon Law now and let us take on your fight as if it were our own.
Orlando Dog Bite FAQs
Do I need to prove the dog was dangerous before the bite?
No. Florida’s strict liability law makes the owner responsible, regardless of whether the dog has bitten before.
What if the bite happened on private property?
The dog’s owner may still be liable, depending on the circumstances. Even if the incident happened at a friend’s home or apartment complex, you may have the right to compensation.
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?
At Meldon Law, we represent dog bite victims on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay us up front or out of pocket. Our fee comes from a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we do not win your case, you do not owe us anything for our services.
"Some of the staff have been there for many years and they always make me feel welcomed when I contact them. They have been so much help over the years. Meldon Law’s knowledge and experience always gets the job done right and my results haven amazing."
Catherine P.
December 2024
"It has been a real pleasure to deal with Jeffery and Stacy. Jeffery is all about his clients. What is best for the clients well being. He is a great attorney. If you need an accident attorney or a referral this is the man to be talking with. He will now be my attorney for life. Jeffery and Stacy, thank you ever so much."
Hazel J.
March 2025
"Jeffrey and his team were great throughout the whole process of my settlement for an auto accident! They handled everything which made it much easier on me! They were able to navigate the ins and outs of the insurance companies and helped me receive my settlement in a timely manner! Great customer service all around. Would definitely recommend them! They made it much easier to move on from my auto accident! Thanks again!"
Justin W.
April 2024
"My first experience with meldon was amazing. The whole staff willing to talk and listen. They were very helpful and guided me threw the whole process. If you went anywhere else I’m sorry for you !!!!!"
Jabari A.
June 2024
