Dog Bite Injuries in Pinellas County: Your Rights To Compensation In A Claim

Dogs are an increasingly common sight at local parks and in stores or even restaurants. Unfortunately, this increases the risks of dog bites and attacks in Pinellas County.

Victims are often left facing painful injuries, medical bills, potential scarring, and long-lasting trauma. Our experienced Clearwater dog bite attorney provides caring support and the trusted legal representation needed to get compensation. Find out more about these types of claims and how to protect your rights.

Your Rights in A Pinellas County Dog Bite Claim

While dogs can provide comfort, companionship, and protection, they can pose significant risks. To protect the public, the Pinellas County Municipal Code prohibits dog owners from allowing their pets to run loose in public parks, city streets, or local neighborhoods.

When dog owners fail to follow the law, potentially life-threatening injuries can happen. Deep puncture wounds, facial injuries, and scarring or disfigurement can impact victims and their families for long after.

If this happens to you or someone you love, you may be entitled to compensation in a claim. Under the Florida Statutes, dog owners can be held liable when dog bites in Pinellas County occur due to the following:

• Failing to keep dogs contained on their property.
• Failing to post signs warning that a potentially dangerous dog is on the premises.
• Failing to keep their dog on a leash in public places.
• Failing to otherwise control their pet.

You may be entitled to compensation either through the dog owner’s property insurance or by filing a personal injury lawsuit against them through the Pinellas County Court.

How To Protect Yourself and Loved Ones Against Pinellas County Dog Bites and Attacks

The Florida Department of Health warns that more than 800 dog bites happen throughout the state each year. Even mild-mannered dogs can get aggressive if they are hurt, hungry, or feel threatened.

Steering clear of stray dogs and not approaching pets without the owner’s permission can help reduce the risks. If a dog bite or attack does happen, take these steps to protect yourself and your rights in a claim:

• Report the incident immediately to law enforcement.
• Get a description of the dog, the owner, and the direction they headed after the attack.
• Get medical help right away and keep copies of all medical records.
• Notify the health department and Pinellas County Animal Services.
• Contact our experienced Clearwater dog bite attorney before making statements to insurers.

Dog bites in Pinellas County can cause devastating injuries and emotional trauma that lasts long after an attack. To get the compensation you are entitled to, get legal help right away.

Contact Our Experienced Pinellas County Dog Bite Attorney

If you or someone you love suffers injuries due to dog bites in Pinellas County, contact The Reep Law Firm. While you focus on healing, our experienced Clearwater dog bite lawyer provides the caring support and professional legal help you need to hold the dog’s owner accountable. To get justice and the compensation you need to recover, request a consultation today.

Sources:

library.municode.com/fl/pinellas_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIIPICOCO_CH14AN_ARTIIANSE_DIV3DOCA_S14-63DOCARG

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0767/Sections/0767.04.html

floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/prevention/dog-bite-prevention/index.htm