Pursuing a lawsuit involves a structured process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you get started:

1. Seek Medical Care and Gather Evidence: Immediately after the bite, get professional treatment and document your injuries with photos, medical reports, and witness statements. This evidence is foundational for proving damages like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
2. File an Insurance Claim: Most claims begin with the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, which often covers bites. Submit a detailed claim letter outlining the incident, injuries, and demanded compensation. Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts, so having an attorney review this step is crucial.
3. Consult an Experienced Attorney: A dog bite lawyer evaluates your case for free, determines liability, and negotiates settlements. At Kaiser Romanello, we investigate thoroughly, including reviewing animal control reports and prior complaints about the dog, to identify all liable parties—such as property owners or even third parties if negligence contributed.
4. File a Lawsuit if Necessary: If the insurance settlement is inadequate, your attorney will file a complaint in court. This initiates the litigation process, which may involve discovery (exchanging evidence), depositions, and potentially a trial. Florida law allows for compensation without proving prior viciousness, strengthening your position.
5. Resolve the Case: Many cases settle out of court, but if it goes to trial, a judge or jury decides based on evidence. Successful claims can cover not just immediate costs but also long-term effects like scarring or therapy.

For example, in cases where negligence is involved (e.g., the owner knew the dog was aggressive but failed to restrain it), you may sue the owner personally beyond insurance limits. We’ve secured significant recoveries for clients by leveraging these nuances.