What to Do After a Dog Bite in Tampa
Dog bites can be traumatic and painful experiences that leave both physical and emotional scars. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Tampa, it’s important to take the right steps immediately to protect your health and your legal rights.
Understanding dog owner liability in Florida can also help you determine if you may be eligible for compensation. Here’s what you need to know.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health should always be your first priority. Even if the bite seems minor, dog bites can lead to infections or more serious complications. Visit an urgent care center or emergency room as soon as possible. If the wound is deep or bleeding heavily, call 911 or go to the hospital immediately.
Report the Bite to Local Authorities
After receiving medical care, report the dog bite to Hillsborough County Animal Control or the Tampa Police Department. Filing a report creates a formal record of the incident and can help identify whether the dog has a history of aggression. This report may also be valuable evidence in any future legal claim.
Document the Incident
Gathering evidence after a dog bite can strengthen your case. Be sure to:
- Take clear photos of your injuries, the scene of the attack, and the dog (if possible).
- Get the dog owner’s contact information, including name, phone number, and address.
- Collect names and contact details of any witnesses.
Keep copies of medical records, prescriptions, and bills related to your treatment. All of this documentation may be critical if you pursue a claim with the help of a Tampa dog bite lawyer.
Understand Dog Owner Liability in Florida
Florida follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. This means dog owners can be held responsible for injuries their dogs cause, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. Victims do not have to prove the owner was negligent, only that the bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
However, there are exceptions. Compensation may be reduced if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. An experienced Tampa dog bite lawyer can review the details of your case and explain your legal options based on Florida’s laws.
Contact a Tampa Dog Bite Lawyer
Once you’ve taken care of your immediate needs, consult a lawyer who has experience with personal injury claims related to dog bites. An attorney can help you:
- Determine if the dog owner is liable under Florida law.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Call Fulgencio Law Today
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Tampa, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Our resourceful team at Fulgencio Law understands the complexities of dog owner liability in Florida and is here to fight for your rights. Call us today at (813) 463-0123 for a free consultation with our experienced Tampa dog bite lawyer.
