Official Records Support Recovery After a Dog Attack

In the moments following a dog attack, victims may be disoriented and have trouble figuring out how to cope with physical injuries sustained and feelings of fear and confusion. This is true whether the person attacked knows the animal and their owner or not.

While being overwhelmed is normal, it is essential that individuals take steps to protect their right to damage compensation should they move forward with an injury claim at a later date. This includes seeking medical attention to connect with comprehensive treatment and contacting Clearwater, Hudson, or Tampa law enforcement officials to report the details of the attack.

Identifying the Dog and Establishing Liability

Reporting a dog attack to law enforcement creates an official record of the incident, which is invaluable when pursuing a personal injury claim. Police officers conduct investigations and interview witnesses, so reports include information these professionals gathered following the event. Often the identity of the dog and the animal’s owner are included in reports, and this information becomes crucial if a person needs to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Plus, identifying the dog and the animal owner is important for verifying the dog’s vaccination status. Knowing the dog’s vaccination history is necessary so an individual who has been bitten or injured knows if they should talk to their healthcare provider about rabies treatments or take other health initiatives. Additionally, it establishes liability on the part of the dog owner, facilitating a clearer path for legal action.

Even if the dog owner says it was not their fault, know that when a dog attack occurs, liability rests with the owner. Florida operates under strict liability laws, meaning that dog owners are held responsible for their pets’ actions, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of it. Reporting the incident as soon as possible provides an official account of the attack and ensures that liability is appropriately assigned.

Supporting a Complete Recovery

Recovering from a dog attack involves more than just physical healing. It is possible emotional trauma, medical bills, and potential long-term effects will need attention as well. Having official records of the incident helps victims build a comprehensive case for compensation, covering not only immediate medical expenses but also ongoing treatments, therapy, and other related costs.

Beyond immediate medical attention, prioritize creating official records if you or someone you care about suffers an animal attack. Reports from law enforcement will detail the incident, identify the dog and its owner, and establish responsibility. Next, talk with a Florida personal injury lawyer about your visible wounds and underlying injuries, including the need for laser or dermabrasion procedures to address scars and promote skin healing.

Have you been bit by a dog in your neighborhood? If you have documentation of the event, the skilled legal experts at Roman & Roman can leverage the official reports and build a strong case for securing the compensation you deserve. To connect with 100 years of combined experience, schedule your fee-free, no-obligation consultation today.

Although the law firm of Roman & Roman has offices in Clearwater, Hudson and Tampa, we handle cases and claims throughout  Florida. We also meet personally with our clients if at all possible, rather than impersonally over the phone or on the Internet.