Dog bites can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog attack in Englewood, Florida, you need experienced legal representation to secure the compensation you deserve. At Slater | Grant, our dedicated Englewood dog bite lawyers are committed to holding negligent dog owners accountable and ensuring victims are fully compensated for their injuries.
We know the trauma that follows a dog attack—from emergency medical bills and plastic surgeries to ongoing psychological care. That’s why our attorneys handle every detail of your case, so you can focus on healing.
Complete the free case evaluation form or call us now at 813-995-6444 to speak directly with an attorney.
Why Choose Slater | Grant’s Englewood Dog Bite Lawyers
When you partner with Slater | Grant, you receive representation from a legal team with proven experience in Florida personal injury law. Our Englewood dog bite lawyers bring decades of combined success in handling complex liability cases involving dog attacks and animal injuries. We don’t just settle cases—we fight for maximum compensation at every stage.
Our firm knows how Florida’s dog bite laws work. Florida follows a strict liability rule, meaning dog owners are legally responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. We use this law to your advantage and work swiftly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, review medical records, and negotiate with insurance companies.
What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Englewood
The actions you take immediately after a dog bite can greatly impact your case. Our Englewood dog bite lawyers recommend the following steps:
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even minor-looking wounds can become infected or worsen over time.
Report the Incident to Local Authorities
Contact Englewood Animal Control or Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office.
Document Your Injuries and the Scene
Take photos, keep damaged clothing, and record witness statements.
Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters
They often look to minimize payouts.
Contact Slater | Grant
Speak with a legal professional who will protect your rights from day one.
Our team will guide you through every step and ensure all critical documentation is secured early, which strengthens your claim.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks in Englewood
Dog bites can lead to a wide range of serious injuries. The most common cases we see involve:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Infections such as rabies or sepsis
- Broken bones or torn tendons (especially from being knocked down)
- Facial disfigurement and scarring
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
Our Englewood dog bite lawyers work closely with medical experts to accurately calculate current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any needed long-term care. If a child has been attacked, we also pursue damages for future surgeries or counseling.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Dog Bite
If you’ve been attacked by a dog in Englewood, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Loss of quality of life
Our Englewood dog bite lawyers are skilled negotiators and aggressive litigators. Whether your case is resolved through settlement or taken to trial, we pursue every dollar you’re legally owed.
Florida Dog Bite Laws You Need to Know
Florida Statute 767.04 states a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites another person in a public place or lawfully on private property. Unlike other states, Florida does not require the victim to prove negligence. This is called strict liability, and it gives you a stronger legal footing when seeking compensation.
However, certain defenses may reduce the amount you’re entitled to. For example:
- Comparative negligence: If the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing, compensation may be reduced.
- “Bad dog” signs: If the dog owner had visible warnings and the bite occurred on their property, this could affect your claim.
Our team knows how to counter these arguments and build a compelling case based on medical records, photos, animal control reports, and expert testimony.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Florida
Victims generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. Delaying your claim can jeopardize your ability to recover damages. That’s why it’s critical to speak with an Englewood dog bite lawyer at Slater | Grant as soon as possible. We act quickly to preserve evidence, track down the dog’s history, and ensure all deadlines are met.
Why Insurance Companies Don’t Want You to Call Us
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their main objective is to settle your case for the least amount possible. They may:
- Offer a lowball settlement hoping you’ll accept it quickly
- Pressure you into giving a recorded statement
- Minimize the severity of your injuries
- Deny your claim altogether
Our Englewood dog bite lawyers have seen it all—and we know how to fight back. When you hire Slater | Grant, you gain a legal team that pushes back against insurance companies with authority, evidence, and experience.
Serving All of Englewood and Surrounding Areas
Whether you were bitten in an Englewood neighborhood, beach park, or while visiting a friend’s home, Slater | Grant is here to help. We represent clients throughout Charlotte and Sarasota counties, and we’re familiar with the nuances of local courts and ordinances.
The Importance of Hiring Local Englewood Dog Bite Lawyers Familiar with Community-Specific Issues
Choosing a legal team with deep roots in Englewood can make a significant difference in the outcome of your dog bite case. Local Englewood dog bite lawyers at Slater | Grant possess intimate knowledge of community-specific factors that affect dog bite claims, including local animal control policies, neighborhood dog regulations, and patterns of dog-related incidents unique to the area.
Because we are based in the region, our lawyers have established relationships with local veterinarians, animal control officers, and medical providers, enabling us to quickly gather crucial evidence and expert opinions that strengthen your case. We also know the tendencies of local courts and judges, which allows us to tailor legal strategies effectively to maximize your chances of success.
When you hire Slater | Grant, you’re not just hiring any law firm—you’re securing the advocacy of Englewood dog bite lawyers who know the local legal system, community standards, and the nuances that can make or break a dog bite claim in this area. This local insight provides you with a decisive advantage in pursuing full and fair compensation.
Schedule Your Free Case Review with Englewood Dog Bite Lawyers Today
Don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Our award-winning team of Englewood dog bite lawyers is ready to take your case, investigate the facts, and pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve. We don’t charge you a dime unless we win.
Complete our free case evaluation form or call us now at 813-995-6444 to speak directly with a member of our legal team. Let us help you get justice, closure, and compensation.
Sources
- Florida Statute 767.04 – Dog Owner’s Liability
Explains Florida’s strict liability statute for dog bite cases.
https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2023/767.04 - CDC – Preventing Dog Bites
Provides national data and prevention tips for dog bites.
https://www.cdc.gov/dogbites/prevention.html - American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Dog Bite Risk and Prevention
Offers information about common causes of dog aggression and bite risks.
https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention
