Dog bites can lead to severe physical and emotional trauma. Whether the injury is minor or serious, victims deserve compensation for their pain and suffering. At the Law Firm of Carl Palomino, we specialize in helping dog bite victims navigate the complex legal process to secure the compensation they deserve. With over 30 years of legal experience, Carl Palomino has successfully represented countless clients throughout Miami and its surrounding areas.

H3: Common Dog Bite Injuries in Miami and Florida

Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from minor scratches to life-threatening conditions. Here are some common injuries caused by dog attacks that often require legal assistance:

• Lacerations and Puncture Wounds: Dog bites can tear the skin, causing deep cuts or punctures that may require stitches or surgery.

• Infections: Due to the bacteria in a dog’s mouth, bite wounds can quickly become infected, leading to complications.

• Nerve Damage: In severe cases, dog bites can damage nerves, potentially leading to long-term numbness, weakness, or loss of sensation.

• Emotional Trauma: Victims, especially children, may experience long-lasting psychological effects from the trauma of a dog attack, such as fear, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Florida Law and Dog Bite Liability

Florida law holds dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets under certain conditions. Florida’s Strict Liability Law (Florida Statutes Section 767.04) makes dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior in the past.

However, there are exceptions:

1. Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog, such as by teasing or harassing it, the dog owner may not be held liable.

2. Trespassing: If the victim was trespassing on private property, the dog owner may not be responsible for the attack.

Even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner could still be held liable for the injuries caused by the dog if the attack occurs in a public place or on the owner’s property.

H3: Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Miami

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, here are the immediate steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if the bite seems minor, it is essential to seek medical care right away. Dog bites can introduce dangerous bacteria into the body, leading to infections or other health complications.

2. Report the Incident to Animal Control

Contact your local animal control agency to report the bite. They will investigate the incident and determine if the dog was previously involved in any attacks or had a history of dangerous behavior.

3. Collect Evidence

Take photos of the injuries, the location of the attack, and any other relevant details. Try to obtain the contact information of any witnesses and the dog owner, as this will be helpful for your case.

4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Do not provide any statements to the dog owner’s insurance company without first consulting with a lawyer.

How Carl Palomino Can Help You

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite in Miami, Carl Palomino, Esq. is ready to help. With over three decades of experience handling personal injury cases, Carl Palomino has a proven track record of securing compensation for victims of dog attacks.

Here’s how Carl can assist you:

• Thorough Investigation: Carl will investigate the circumstances surrounding the dog bite, including the dog’s history, the owner’s liability, and any other contributing factors.

• Medical and Emotional Recovery: We will work with your medical providers to ensure you receive the care you need and fight for compensation for your emotional suffering, if applicable.

• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Carl Palomino will handle all negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.

• Aggressive Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Carl is prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights.

What to Expect During Your Dog Bite Lawsuit

When you hire Carl Palomino, Esq., here’s what the legal process typically looks like:

1. Initial Consultation: The first step is to discuss your case with Carl. During this consultation, we’ll evaluate the circumstances and discuss potential legal options.

2. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Carl will gather all necessary evidence, including witness testimonies, photographs, and medical records, to build a strong case.

3. Negotiation: We’ll work directly with the dog owner’s insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.

4. Litigation (if necessary): If negotiations don’t lead to a satisfactory outcome, Carl will file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

Every dog bite case is different, and results vary depending on the facts and circumstances of each case. It’s important to act quickly and consult with an experienced attorney to protect your rights.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Carl Palomino, Esq.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact the Law Firm of Carl Palomino at 305-774-9790 for a free case evaluation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay unless we win your case.