Can I Sue for a Dog Bite Injury in Broward County Parks?

Yes, you can sue for a dog bite injury in a Broward County park. If a dog has bitten you, you’re not just dealing with pain—you’re probably staring down medical bills, lost work time, and a lot of frustration. Whether it’s a small nip or a severe injury, the law in Florida holds dog owners responsible, even if their pet has never bitten anyone before.

Dog Bite Laws in Broward County

Florida follows a strict liability rule, which means that a dog owner is automatically responsible for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past. Like many other public spaces, Broward County parks have leash laws in place. Dog owners are required to keep their pets leashed unless they are in designated off-leash areas. If an off-leash dog bit you in a non-designated area, that’s an additional factor that strengthens your case. The fact that the owner violated leash laws can further prove their responsibility for the incident. However, proving liability can be challenging, and it requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Establishing Liability in Dog Bite Cases

To establish liability in a dog bite case, several elements must be proven:

1. Ownership: It must be established that the dog’s owner is responsible for the dog and has control over its actions.
2. Negligence: If the owner knew or should have known that their dog posed a risk to others and failed to take reasonable precautions, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries.
3. Proximate Cause: The dog bite must be the direct cause of the injuries suffered by the victim.
4. Damages: The victim must have suffered injuries or incurred expenses as a result of the dog bite.

Seeking Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

• Medical Expenses: This covers all costs related to treating your injuries, including emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy.
• Lost Wages: If the dog bite caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for your lost wages during your recovery period. This includes both short-term and long-term lost earnings if your ability to work is affected.
• Pain and Suffering: Dog bites can cause physical pain and emotional distress. You can seek compensation for the trauma, anxiety, and ongoing mental health issues caused by the attack, especially if the injury leaves lasting scars or leads to a fear of dogs.
• Property Damage: If any of your personal property—such as clothing, a phone, or even a bicycle—was damaged during the dog attack, you may be able to recover compensation for repair or replacement costs.
• Emotional Distress: In addition to physical pain, dog bites can have long-lasting emotional impacts, especially for children or those with severe injuries. Compensation can be sought for emotional suffering and psychological trauma.
• Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement: Dog bites often leave victims with lasting scars. If you are left with permanent physical damage, you can seek compensation for disfigurement and the emotional toll it takes on your self-image and quality of life.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injury has significantly affected your ability to enjoy daily activities or hobbies you once loved, you can claim compensation for this loss.

Get Justice with a Florida Dog Bite Attorney by Your Side

If a dog bite has turned your day at a Broward County park into a nightmare, it’s time to get help. At Winston Law, we know how devastating a dog bite can be, both physically and emotionally. Our experience in handling dog bite cases can make a huge difference in how your case unfolds. From covering your medical bills to fighting for compensation for pain and suffering, we’ll be there for you every step of the way. Connect with us online or call us today at 954-606-6606 to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.