If you’ve been bitten, follow these critical steps to safeguard your well-being and build a strong case:

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Care: First, get to a safe location away from the dog. Assess the injury and clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water to reduce infection risk. The Florida Department of Health emphasizes seeking medical attention immediately—even for seemingly minor bites—as puncture wounds can lead to serious issues like tetanus or rabies exposure. Over 600 hospitalizations occur annually in Florida due to dog bites, so visit a doctor or emergency room within eight hours. Keep all medical records, as they will be crucial for your claim.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner: Gather as much information as possible about the dog (breed, description), its owner (name, contact details), and the location of the incident. If witnesses are present, collect their statements and contact information. This data is vital for reporting and holding the owner accountable under Florida Statute 767.04, which imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries.
3. Report the Incident: Contact local animal control authorities or the Florida Department of Health right away to file an official report. This not only creates a documented record but may also result in the dog being quarantined for rabies observation. In Florida, reporting helps track surges in attacks, like the 2024 increase, and prevents future incidents.
4. Document Everything: Take clear photos of your injuries, the bite scene, any visible wounds, and even the dog if safe to do so. Note details like the time, date, and circumstances of the attack. Retain receipts for medical treatments, medications, and any lost wages from time off work. Thorough documentation strengthens your personal injury claim and counters any insurance company attempts to downplay the severity.
5. Consult a Lawyer Early: Florida’s statute of limitations gives you typically four years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but delaying can weaken your case as evidence fades. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.

At Kaiser Romanello, we’ve helped countless victims recover from dog bites by building robust cases based on these steps. For instance, in cases involving children—who are often the most vulnerable—we emphasize emotional trauma in addition to physical injuries.