Dog Bite Attorney in St. Petersburg, FL

A dog attack can leave lasting physical scars and emotional trauma, especially when a child or older adult is involved. If you or a family member was bitten or attacked by a dog in St. Petersburg or elsewhere in Pinellas County, Florida law gives you stronger legal protection than most states, and our team at Jeeves Law Group can help you use it to recover the compensation you deserve.

Florida Holds Dog Owners Strictly Liable

Under Florida Statute 767.04, a dog owner is strictly liable for injuries their dog causes when biting another person in a public place or lawfully in a private place, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous. This differs from many states that only hold an owner responsible if the dog had bitten someone before.

That said, an owner may raise defenses if the injured person was trespassing or provoked the dog, and Florida’s comparative negligence rules can reduce a settlement if you are found partially at fault. Most dog bite claims must be filed within two years of the attack.

Serving Dog Bite Victims Throughout Pinellas County

We represent injured clients from St. Petersburg neighborhoods and throughout Pinellas Park, Gulfport, Seminole, and the surrounding communities, as well as across the bay in Tampa and Hillsborough County. Dog attacks often happen in a neighbor’s yard, an apartment or condo complex, a public park, or while walking or jogging along one of St. Petersburg’s many trails, and where the attack happened can affect which insurance policy applies.

Serious Injuries from Dog Bites

A dog can cause life-changing injuries in a matter of seconds. Some injuries that commonly result and lead to extensive medical care and losses include:

• Deep puncture wounds
• Lacerations and gashes
• Tendon and soft tissue damages
• Fractures
• Infections of wounds
• Rabies

Even with prompt medical attention, many wounds result in permanent scarring, which can lead to emotional damage. Further, the dog attack itself can result in ongoing mental trauma that requires treatment.

How Compensation Works in a Dog Bite Case

Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance policy, which typically includes liability coverage for injuries the resident’s pet causes to others. Our attorneys handle direct negotiations with these insurers, who often try to minimize claims or dispute how the attack happened. We pursue compensation for medical treatment, including plastic surgery when scarring is involved, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term psychological impact, particularly in cases involving children.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

Seek medical attention immediately, even for a bite that looks minor, since infection risk is high. Identify the dog and its owner, report the attack to animal control or local law enforcement, photograph your injuries and the scene, and get contact information for any witnesses.