Boca Raton Dog & Animal Attack Lawyer

Experienced Boca Raton Animal Attack Attorneys

Dog bites and animal attacks can cause devastating physical injuries, permanent scarring, and lasting psychological trauma. In Florida, animal owners are held to strict liability standards, meaning they are responsible for injuries caused by their animals regardless of whether the animal has shown aggressive behavior in the past. At Roselli & McNelis, our trial attorneys fight aggressively to ensure animal attack victims receive the full compensation they deserve.

Every year, millions of Americans are bitten by dogs, and Florida consistently ranks among the top states for dog bite claims. Children, mail carriers, joggers, and visitors to private properties are among the most common victims. Whether you were attacked by a neighbor's dog, a stray animal, or a dangerous breed that was negligently contained, our firm has the experience and resources to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Florida's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law

Florida's dog bite statute (Florida Statute 767.01) imposes strict liability on dog owners, which means:

• No "One Bite" Rule: Unlike some states, Florida does not give dog owners a free pass for a first bite. The owner is liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before and showed no prior signs of aggression.
• Public or Private Property: The statute applies whether the bite occurred in a public place or on private property, as long as the victim was lawfully present on the property.
• Comparative Negligence: If the victim's own negligence contributed to the attack (such as provoking the animal), the owner's liability may be reduced by the victim's percentage of fault.
• Dangerous Dog Classifications: Florida law provides for the classification of dogs as "dangerous" after certain incidents, imposing additional requirements on owners and creating stronger grounds for liability in subsequent attacks.

Types of Animal Attack Injuries

Animal attacks, particularly dog bites, can cause a wide range of serious injuries. Our attorneys represent victims who have suffered:

• Bite Wounds and Lacerations: Deep puncture wounds, torn tissue, and lacerations that often require emergency medical treatment, stitches, and wound care.
• Facial Injuries and Disfigurement: Dog bites to the face are particularly devastating, often requiring reconstructive surgery and leaving permanent scars that affect a victim's appearance and self-esteem.
• Infections: Animal bites frequently lead to serious infections, including cellulitis, pasteurella, MRSA, and in rare cases, rabies. Infections can require hospitalization, IV antibiotics, and additional surgeries.
• Nerve Damage: Severe bites can damage nerves, causing numbness, tingling, chronic pain, and loss of function in the affected area.
• Broken Bones: Large dogs can knock victims to the ground, causing fractures, particularly in children and elderly individuals.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Animal attacks frequently cause PTSD, anxiety, phobias, nightmares, and lasting emotional distress, especially in children.

Who Can Be Held Liable for an Animal Attack?

While the animal's owner is the primary defendant in most cases, other parties may also share liability depending on the circumstances:

• Animal Owners: Under Florida's strict liability statute, dog owners are liable for bite injuries regardless of the animal's history of aggression.
• Property Owners and Landlords: If a landlord knew a tenant's dog was dangerous and failed to take action, they may share liability for injuries that occur on the property.
• Property Managers and HOAs: Entities responsible for managing common areas may be liable if they failed to enforce pet policies or address known dangerous animals.
• Animal Caretakers: Dog walkers, pet sitters, kennel operators, and anyone who had custody of the animal at the time of the attack may be held responsible.
• Parents of Minor Owners: When a minor owns the animal, the minor's parents or guardians may be held liable for the attack.

Damages in Animal Attack Cases

If you've been injured in a dog bite or animal attack, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, surgery, wound care, antibiotics, reconstructive procedures, physical therapy, and all future medical treatment related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery and future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD, and the overall impact on your quality of life following the attack.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Additional compensation for permanent scars, particularly facial scarring, that affect your appearance and self-confidence.
• Future Medical Costs: Ongoing treatment, scar revision surgeries, counseling for emotional trauma, and any long-term care needs.

Why Choose Roselli & McNelis for Your Animal Attack Case?

Animal attack cases require aggressive advocacy to ensure victims receive fair compensation from insurance companies that routinely undervalue these claims:

• Civil Trial Lawyers: Our attorneys hold the Florida Bar's highest trial certification, demonstrating elite expertise in personal injury litigation.
• Thorough Case Investigation: We investigate the animal's history, the owner's knowledge of dangerous behavior, and any prior complaints or violations to build the strongest possible case.
• Experience with Insurance Companies: Homeowner's insurance policies typically cover dog bite claims, and we know how to negotiate with these insurers for maximum value.
• No Fee Unless We Win: We handle animal attack cases on a contingency basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.