What to Do After a Dog Bite in Collier County: A Southwest Florida Victim’s Guide

Understanding Dog (Bog) Bite Incidents in Collier County, FL

Dog bites are a common form of personal injury across Southwest Florida, including Collier County and Naples. These incidents often result in serious physical trauma, risk of infection, emotional distress, and high medical costs. Florida imposes strict liability on dog owners, meaning victims are entitled to compensation regardless of provocation or prior history. 

Types and Causes of Dog Bite Accidents

• Familiar dogs, especially family pets, are frequently involved 86% of bites to children under six occur at home. 
• Lack of training or socialization contributes heavily to bite incidents—new or poorly behaved dogs may react aggressively in unfamiliar situations. 
• Overcrowding and high-density living in Southwest Florida communities increase human–dog interactions—and elevated risk. 
• Neglect or improper restraint: unsecured yards, missing fencing, or unleashed dogs often lead to unexpected attacks. 

2024–2025 Dog Bite Statistics in Southwest Florida & Collier County

Florida-Wide Data

• In 2023, Florida recorded 1,532 dog bite claims, and over 600 hospitalizations annually due to dog-related injuries. Average claim cost was around $66,615. 
• Nationwide dog bite claims rose by 18.9 %, from 19,062 in 2023 to 22,658 in 2024. Average cost per claim increased to $69,272. 
• Florida had the second-highest number of insurance claims (about 1,821) in 2024. 

Collier County & Local Region

• Lee County—neighboring Collier—reports approximately 1,400 hospitalizations per year from dog bites. 
• Collier County does not break out separate annual dog bite hospitalization numbers but is included in state totals. However, as part of Southwest Florida, Collier contributes significantly to regional trends.
• Rabies control data indicates Collier enforces bite investigations under Florida statutes. 

As a Victim in Collier County: Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even minor bites risk infection, nervous system damage, or rabies. Documenting medical records establishes essential proof.

2. Report the Incident to Authorities

Notify Collier County Domestic Animal Services and file a rabies control report. Ensure the dog owner’s information and vaccination status are recorded.

3. Document the Scene and Injuries

Photograph bite wounds and the circumstances: location, environment, fencing, leash status, and any supervision issues.

4. Gather Witness Statements

Obtain contact details of anyone who saw the attack happen—this may strengthen liability claims.

5. Preserve Evidence

Keep torn clothing or captured images of the dog itself. Record veterinarian records if animal is quarantined or tested for rabies.

6. Contact a Southwest Florida Personal Injury Attorney

An experienced dog bite lawyer helps navigate Florida’s strict liability law, negotiate with insurance, and ensure you recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

A Closer Look: Pitman Law Firm, P.L.

Pittman Law Firm, P.L. serves victims of dog bites and other personal injuries across Southwest Florida, including Collier County, Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and surrounding counties. Their offices in Fort Myers and Bonita Springs deliver personal injury legal representation tailored to dog bite and premises liability cases.

• Local knowledge: Deep experience dealing with Florida dog bite laws and Collier County animal control procedures.
• Personal approach: Clients speak directly with attorneys, not just paralegals.
• Strict liability expertise: Florida law ensures dog owners are responsible, and Pittman Law Firm builds claims reflecting this statutory right. 
• No upfront fees: You pay only if they win your case.

Why Prompt Legal Action Matters

• Insurance limits quickly reached: Typical severe injury settlements in Florida range from $25,000 to over $188,750, with serious cases exceeding $200K. 
• Statute of limitations: Florida law limits time to file personal injury claims—acting quickly preserves rights.
• Expert handling of liability proofs: Establishing owner negligence, breed risk, or dangerous dog declarations takes a trained legal approach—especially in dog‑bite cases where provocation may become an issue.

Pittman Law Firm, P.L. is fully committed to advocating for victims across all counties of Southwest Florida—including Collier—and guiding you through the legal recovery process when dog bite injuries occur.