Dog bites are not only painful in the moment, they often create long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences for victims and their families. From severe puncture wounds and illnesses to permanent scarring and psychological trauma, the impact of a dog attack can be devastating. If you or your child has been bitten in Orlando, you need an advocate who understands Florida’s strict dog bite liability laws and how to build a compelling claim.
At Ligori & Ligori Injury Attorneys, we are dedicated to representing victims of dog bites across Florida, including right here in Orlando. Our firm is AV Preeminent Rated, recognized by Best Lawyers, and proud members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. These recognitions reflect our longstanding commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy. With decades of combined experience, we have handled a wide range of personal injury cases, including dog bite injuries, and we bring both skill and compassion to every case we accept.
Florida’s Dog Bite Law
Florida law imposes strict liability on dog owners. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is typically responsible for damages, regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before or shown prior aggression. Unlike other states with a “one-bite rule,” Florida holds owners accountable from the very first incident.
However, there are exceptions that owners and their insurers may attempt to use, such as:
- The victim was trespassing on private property
- The victim provoked the dog
- A “Bad Dog” warning sign was posted and visible
- The dog was acting defensively in certain situations
An experienced Orlando dog bite attorney can analyze the facts of your case, collect the right evidence, and build arguments that overcome these defenses.
The Consequences of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites are often far more serious than people expect. In addition to the immediate wounds, they can cause:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations requiring stitches or surgical repair
- Fractures or crush injuries when large breeds exert significant jaw force
- Nerve damage leading to numbness, loss of function, or chronic pain
- Severe illnesses including rabies, tetanus, or bacterial diseases
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially in facial injuries
- Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or lasting fear of animals
Children are especially vulnerable. Because of their height, children are more likely to suffer facial and neck injuries, which can require surgery and lead to lifelong scars. Families often face the added stress of medical bills, therapy costs, and the emotional toll of helping their child recover.
Financial and Emotional Burdens
Beyond physical recovery, victims of dog bites in Orlando often face overwhelming financial strain. Emergency care, plastic surgery, rehabilitation, and counseling can result in medical expenses that last for months or even years. Lost income from time away from work, combined with the emotional cost of scarring or disability, makes these cases particularly challenging.
Our attorneys at Ligori & Ligori work closely with medical providers, economists, and psychological experts to ensure that every aspect of your damages is properly documented. This helps us pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to under Florida law.
