Protecting Yourself Against Dog Bites In Naples
Dogs may appear to be cute, cuddly companions, but any dog can get aggressive in certain types of situations. When the owner fails to properly restrain their pet, serious and potentially life-threatening personal injuries can happen as a result. Cases involving dog bites and attacks are among the most common types of premises liability claims. Our Naples premises liability lawyer explains more about the risks and your rights in seeking compensation.
Naples Dog Bite Injuries Pose Serious Risks To Residents
If you live in Naples, you are likely used to encountering dogs in parks, stores, restaurants, or other public places. People are often permitted to bring their furry, four-legged creatures, provided the dog remains leashed and under the owner’s control at all times.
Unfortunately, serious dog bite injuries in Naples can happen when dog owners fail to follow the rules or secure their pets on private property. According to a late 2023 Naples Daily News report, at least two people are killed due to dog bite injuries in Florida each year, while close to 1,000 other victims require emergency medical care.
Considering how common it is to see dogs in public, it is important to be aware of the risks and to know how to protect yourself. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends following these tips:
- Avoid approaching dogs when out in public;
- Be aware that crouching and raised shackles are signs the dog is about to get aggressive;
- If you encounter a dangerous dog or one about to attack, remain calm;
- Avoid running, which is likely to cause the dog to chase you;
- Retreat slowly, if possible, avoiding eye contact with the dog;
- If they begin to charge and you have no escape, curl into a ball and use your jacket, handbag, or other objects to shield your face and other sensitive spots.
Holding Owners Accountable For Dog Bites In Naples
Under the Florida Statutes, dog owners have a legal duty to properly restrain their pets, both on private property and when out in public. When they fail in this duty, they can be held liable for losses victims suffer as a result of a dog bite or attack in Naples.
The costs associated with dog bite injuries in Naples can generally be covered through the dog owner’s property insurance. If they lack this type of coverage, you may be entitled to file a premises liability lawsuit against them. Compensation available includes:
- Payment for all medical expenses resulting from your injuries;
- Reimbursement for lost wages while you recover;
- Compensation for scarring, disfigurement, or lost limbs;
- Additional amounts for your pain, suffering, and any lingering trauma you experience as a result.
Request A Consultation With Our Naples Premises Liability Lawyers
When dog bites happen, you may be entitled to compensation in a premises liability claim. At Cardinal Law Firm, we help you get the maximum amount you need to recover. Call or contact us online today to request a consultation with our Naples premises lawyers.
Sources:
naplesnews.com/story/news/state/2023/09/27/dog-bites-florida-how-protect-treat-wounds-most-at-risk-breeds-biden-white-house-secret-service/70979241007/#:~:text=Florida%20children%20at%20highest%20risk%20for%20dog%20bites&text=Each%20year%2C%20an%20average%20of,to%20injuries%20from%20dog%20bites.
avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0767/Sections/0767.04.html
