Dogs can make great housemates. In the vast majority of cases, these popular pets are sweet, kind companions who are just happy to be standing next to their owners when they answer the front door.
Unfortunately, some dogs bite without provocation. When that happens, victims can be left with permanent—and expensive—injuries.
How should victims of dog bites recover compensation? You’ll need money to pay for your medical bills and lost income, and you deserve compensation for the emotional trauma you’ve been through. Many victims turn to the dog owner’s homeowners insurance policy.
Many homeowners insurance policies do cover dog bites, but you’ll have to file a claim with the insurer and prove your case to recover the compensation you deserve. That’s where a dog bite lawyer from Lopez & Humphries, PA can help.
Your Bite May Be Covered
Luckily, pet-related damages may be covered by the pet owner’s homeowners insurance. Because these policies often cover any damages that happen within the home or on the property, a dog bite or attack may be covered.
Because dog bites can be dangerous and lead to serious infections, be sure that you speak to an attorney and the appropriate insurance company soon. If you haven’t already, you’ll need to see a healthcare professional to make sure you’re safe and create a paper trail that documents your injuries.
Sometimes, Insurance Won’t Apply
If the owner of the dog that bit you doesn’t have homeowners insurance or doesn’t have a policy that will cover what happened to you, you may be left with no other choice but to sue the dog owner directly.
Florida recognizes strict liability for dog owners when their animals bite people. That means you don’t have to prove that the owner knew his or her dog was dangerous—you simply have to prove that you were bitten and that you didn’t provoke the dog in some way.
Whichever route you take as you seek compensation, a qualified attorney from our firm can help you make sure your claim is a success.
Meet with a Lakeland Dog Bite Lawyer
When a dog bites you at someone’s home, you may feel that you have nowhere to turn for the compensation you need to recover. Perhaps the dog’s owner simply doesn’t have the means to compensate you fairly, or maybe you’re hesitant to sue a friend or family member. Fortunately, there is somewhere to turn.
Many homeowners insurance policies cover dog bites, and you can file a claim with the dog owner’s policy. For help doing so, contact a lawyer from Lopez & Humphries, PA. Just give us a call at (863) 774-3573 or complete the online contact form at the bottom of this page.