Animal Attack Attorneys in Gainesville
Were You Injured by a Loose Dog or Other Animal?
Being attacked by an animal can be a frightening and traumatic experience. If you or a loved one were the victim of a dog bite, you should seek immediate medical care and report the attack to your county's animal services or sheriff's department. In order to protect your legal rights, time is of the essence. Florida has a strict liability dog bite statute but identifying the animal that attacked you is an important first step.
If you believe the animal was a stray, you should provide law enforcement officials with a detailed description of the animal and the exact location of the attack.
At Schackow & Mercadante, our legal team will conduct an immediate investigation to:
- Secure and preserve evidence
- Track down and interview witnesses
- Establish the dog's ownership
- Identify other responsible parties
- Report the incident to animal control
- Obtain medical evaluation of injuries
If you've been injured by a dog or other animal, contact us at (352) 261-6767.
Designation as a "Dangerous Dog"
Under Florida law, if a dog bites or attacks another person, the owner may face civil liability. In turn, the dog may be designated as a "dangerous dog" for which the owner must make special arrangements for keeping the animal. If a dangerous dog is left uncontrolled and kills someone, the owner can be charged with manslaughter by culpable negligence. However, if the dog bit someone who was committing a crime or the dog was protecting a human who was under attack, the owner will not be guilty of any crime. Documenting a dog bite case can be a complex process.
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Personalized Advice & Concierge Level Experience
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Direct Communication With Your Attorney
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Over 125 Years of Combined Experience
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Practicing in The Gainesville Area 55+ Years