Tampa Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog bite injury refers to harm inflicted on a person as a result of a dog's aggressive or violent behavior. Our Tampa dog bite lawyers are experienced in these types of cases and will get you the compensation you deserve under Florida law.
At Papasov Law Group, our Tampa dog bite lawyers are dedicated to helping victims who have suffered injuries due to unprovoked dog attacks. Whether you were bitten while walking through your neighborhood, visiting a friend, or even just passing by a yard, a dog bite can cause serious physical and emotional trauma—and dealing with medical costs, scarring, and liability questions can quickly become overwhelming.
Dog bite cases in Florida involve specific laws, including strict liability rules that often hold the dog’s owner responsible regardless of the animal’s past behavior. However, proving the circumstances of the attack and navigating insurance claims still requires careful legal guidance. Our team thoroughly investigates each case, gathers key evidence, and builds strong claims to hold negligent owners accountable.
If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Tampa, don’t wait to get legal help. Contact Papasov Law Group today for a free consultation. Let our experienced dog bite attorneys fight for the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
Our Tampa Dog Bite Lawyers Will Fight For Your Rights
Being attacked or bitten by a dog can be a frightening and painful experience—with injuries that range from puncture wounds and infections to permanent scarring and emotional trauma. At Papasov Law Group, our experienced Tampa dog bite lawyers are here to protect your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Florida law holds dog owners strictly liable for most bite injuries, meaning the victim does not need to prove the dog had a history of aggression. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or claim the victim provoked the animal. That’s where we step in.
Our team will:
Investigate the incident thoroughly, including witness statements, medical records, and past complaints about the dog
Identify all sources of liability, including homeowners or renters insurance policies
Handle all communications with insurers, so you can focus on your recovery
Calculate full damages—including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs
Build a compelling claim and fight for a fair settlement—or take your case to court if necessary
Dog bite claims can be complex, especially when the victim is a child or when injuries result in long-term consequences. We’re committed to treating your case with the attention and care it deserves.
Contact Papasov Law Group today for a free consultation with a Tampa dog bite lawyer who will advocate for your rights and help you take the next step toward healing.
Who is Liable for a Dog Bite in Tampa, Florida?
Under Florida law, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs—regardless of the animal’s past behavior. This means that even if the dog has never bitten or shown aggression before, the owner can still be legally responsible if their dog bites someone. In Tampa and throughout Florida, liability applies whether the attack occurs in a public place or on private property, as long as the victim was lawfully present.
Strict Liability vs. Negligence
Strict liability means the victim doesn’t have to prove that the owner was negligent. However, if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or acting recklessly, the dog owner may argue comparative fault, which could reduce the amount of compensation awarded.
Other Potentially Liable Parties
In some cases, parties other than the dog’s owner may also be held liable, including:
Landlords, if they knew about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to take reasonable action
Dog walkers or caretakers, if the bite occurred while they were in control of the dog
Property owners, if poor fencing or unsecured areas allowed the dog to escape and attack someone
Because liability can extend beyond just the owner, it’s important to work with an experienced Tampa dog bite lawyer who can thoroughly investigate the situation and identify all responsible parties.
At Papasov Law Group, we’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue maximum compensation after a dog bite injury. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Types of Damages Awarded in Tampa Dog Bite Cases
Victims of dog bites in Tampa may be entitled to a range of economic and non-economic damages, depending on the severity of their injuries and the impact on their lives.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover measurable financial losses directly related to the injury, such as:
Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
Future Medical Care: Expenses for ongoing treatments like physical therapy or reconstructive surgery.
Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery.
Loss of Earning Capacity: Reduced ability to earn income in the future because of permanent injury.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for intangible, personal impacts, including:
Pain and Suffering: Physical discomfort and anguish caused by the injury.
Emotional Distress: Psychological effects such as anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs.
Scarring or Disfigurement: Lasting visible marks that affect appearance and self-esteem.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Reduced ability to engage in daily activities and hobbies.
At Papasov Law Group, our Tampa dog bite lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the full value of all damages.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury in Tampa
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Tampa, taking the right steps immediately after the incident is critical for your health, safety, and legal claim. Below are key Dos and Don’ts to follow to protect your rights and strengthen your potential case.
Do
Get Medical Help Immediately: Even if the bite seems minor, seek medical care right away. Dog bites can cause infections and other complications that may not be immediately visible.
Report the Incident: Notify local authorities, such as animal control or law enforcement. This creates an official record of the attack and may trigger a health evaluation of the dog.
Photograph Injuries and the Scene: Take clear photos of your wounds, torn clothing, and the location where the bite occurred. If possible, photograph the dog and any signs (e.g., “Beware of Dog”) nearby.
Gather Witness Information: If anyone saw the attack, ask for their contact information. Their statements may support your version of events.
Document Your Recovery: Keep records of medical treatments, prescriptions, out-of-pocket costs, time missed from work, and emotional impacts like anxiety or trauma.
Contact a Tampa Dog Bite Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you understand Florida’s strict liability laws and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Don’t
Admit Fault or Apologize: Don’t say anything that could be taken as an admission of guilt or suggest you provoked the dog.
Delay Reporting: Failing to report the bite promptly can weaken your case and delay treatment if the dog is not up-to-date on vaccinations.
Accept a Quick Settlement: Insurance companies may offer fast payouts to limit their liability. Always consult an attorney before accepting.
Post on Social Media: Avoid discussing the incident online, as photos or comments may be misinterpreted or used against you.
Taking these actions early can significantly improve your chances of a successful dog bite injury claim. For help navigating your next steps, reach out to Papasov Law Group—your trusted Tampa dog bite lawyers.
Common Injuries Associated with Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor scratches to life-threatening wounds. Understanding the common types of injuries can help victims recognize the need for prompt medical and legal attention.
Puncture wounds: Sharp, deep injuries caused by a dog’s teeth that can damage muscles, tendons, and bones. These wounds are prone to infection.
Lacerations: Tears in the skin that may require stitches and can result in significant scarring.
Crush injuries: Damage from the force of the bite that can crush bones, muscles, and nerves, potentially leading to long-term disability.
Infections: Bacteria from the dog’s mouth can cause serious infections, including cellulitis or even sepsis if untreated.
Nerve damage: Bites near nerves can cause numbness, weakness, or loss of function in affected areas.
Scarring and disfigurement: Visible scars or deformities may require reconstructive surgery and can affect a victim’s quality of life.
Emotional and psychological trauma: Fear, anxiety, and PTSD are common, especially in children or those severely injured.
Prompt medical treatment and legal guidance from an experienced Tampa dog bite lawyer are crucial to address these injuries and secure fair compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Tampa, Florida
In Florida, dog bite injury claims fall under the general personal injury statute of limitations, which is two years from the date of the injury. This means you must file a lawsuit within two years, or your case may be barred by the court regardless of its merits.
For wrongful death claims related to a dog attack, the deadline is also typically two years from the date of death.
Because evidence can disappear and memories fade, it’s important to act promptly. Consulting a knowledgeable Tampa dog bite lawyer early on ensures your rights are protected and your claim is filed on time.
Contact Papasov Law Group today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
More Dog Bite Injury FAQs
If you have any questions about dog bite lawsuits in Florida that aren’t answered here, please feel free to contact us and we’ll get back to you with an answer as soon as possible:
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The amount you can sue for a dog bite in Florida depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects like scarring or emotional trauma. Minor injuries might result in settlements ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, while more severe cases involving extensive medical treatment, permanent disfigurement, or nerve damage can reach six figures or more. If the attack results in a wrongful death, damages can include funeral costs and loss of companionship, often leading to higher awards. An experienced Tampa dog bite lawyer can help assess the full value of your claim and fight for fair compensation.
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Florida follows a strict liability law regarding dog bites. This means the dog owner is generally responsible for injuries caused by their dog biting a person, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggression. The victim does not need to prove the dog was dangerous or had bitten before. However, the owner may defend themselves if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or committing another unlawful act at the time of the bite. This strict liability helps protect victims and encourages responsible dog ownership.
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Once a dog bite is reported, local animal control authorities typically investigate the incident. The dog may be quarantined for up to 10 days to check for signs of rabies. If the dog shows no signs of illness, it is usually released to the owner after the quarantine period. The victim should seek medical treatment immediately and report the bite to the police or animal control to create an official record. Insurance companies may then be notified if the dog owner files a claim. It’s important to consult with a dog bite lawyer early to protect your legal rights throughout this process.
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No, Florida does not follow the "one bite rule." Instead, it enforces strict liability for dog bite injuries, meaning the owner is liable for damages regardless of whether the dog has previously bitten someone. The "one bite rule," which some other states follow, requires proof that the dog had a known history of aggression before the owner is held responsible. Florida’s strict liability statute makes it easier for victims to recover compensation.
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Yes, in most cases, homeowners insurance policies in Florida include liability coverage that can pay for damages resulting from dog bites. This typically covers medical bills, legal fees, and settlements or judgments if the case goes to court. However, some insurance companies exclude certain dog breeds considered “dangerous” or may limit coverage amounts. It’s important to work with an attorney who understands how to navigate insurance claims to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
Hire a Tampa Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Tampa, Papasov Law Group is here to support you. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of dog bite cases and is dedicated to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. Dog bite claims often involve complex liability issues and strict Florida laws—we know how to investigate thoroughly and build a strong case on your behalf.
You don’t pay anything unless we win!