Fort Myers Dog Bites & Attacks 

Experienced Legal Representation for Dog Bite Victims in Bonita Springs, Naples & Southwest Florida

Dog bite injuries are traumatic events that can result in severe physical and emotional consequences for victims. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog attack in Fort Myers, Florida, it is essential to have an experienced legal advocate on your side to protect your rights and pursue justice. 

At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., we understand the complexities of dog bite claims and are committed to helping victims in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Naples, and throughout Southwest Florida recover the compensation they deserve. Our personalized approach sets us apart, ensuring that clients work directly with a dedicated dog bite attorney in Fort Myers who values their individual needs.

Take action after a dog bite—call Pittman Law Firm, P.L. today for a free consultation with a Fort Myers dog bite attorney.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Fort Myers

After a dog bite incident in Fort Myers, it is crucial to follow specific steps to safeguard your health and legal rights. Your top priority should always be obtaining immediate medical care, regardless of how minor the wound appears, as Florida's climate can increase the risk of infections. Local emergency providers, such as Lee Health, can properly assess and treat your injuries. Be sure to carefully document your injuries, capture photographs, and record the location where the dog attack took place. These details may prove vital for your case if you seek compensation later with the help of a dog bite lawyer in Fort Myers.

Once you have received medical treatment, promptly report the incident to Lee County Animal Services or Fort Myers law enforcement, as local ordinances require this step. Completing an official report creates critical documentation for your dog bite attorney. If you know or can identify the dog owner, exchange contact information and request the dog's vaccination records, which are important for both your health and your case. After completing these steps, contact a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer at Pittman Law Firm, P.L. for a personalized case evaluation and guidance on what comes next. Our team stands ready to support you in holding negligent parties responsible and securing your future.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Florida

Florida law imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dogs. This means a dog owner can be held accountable if their pet bites another person—even if the dog never previously showed signs of aggression. As a victim, you do not need to prove owner negligence or prior knowledge of the dog’s dangerous tendencies. It is sufficient to show that you suffered a dog bite and sustained injuries as a result.

However, certain defenses may reduce or eliminate an owner's liability in a dog attack case. For example, if the victim was trespassing on private property or provoking the animal, Florida law may reduce or deny compensation. Navigating these legal defenses requires the guidance of a skilled dog bite attorney in Fort Myers, who can challenge attempts to unfairly place blame on the victim and fight for the compensation you deserve.

It is important to note that Florida’s statute of limitations allows dog bite victims in Fort Myers four years from the date of the attack to file a claim. Failing to file within this timeframe may forfeit your right to recover damages. Local Lee County ordinances may require prompt reporting of the bite to animal control, so taking immediate action is essential. Trusted guidance from a Fort Myers dog bite lawyer ensures that all deadlines and procedures are met, giving your case the best chance for success.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks often result in a wide range of injuries, some of which have life-altering impacts. Here are several common types of injuries sustained in Fort Myers dog bites:

• Puncture Wounds: These may lead to infections like rabies or tetanus if not quickly treated.
• Lacerations: Deep cuts from a bite can require significant medical attention, including stitches or surgery.
• Nerve Damage: Severe bites may injure nerves, causing lasting loss of sensation or motor function.
• Facial Injuries: Facial bites are particularly traumatic, sometimes resulting in disfigurement or reconstructive surgery.
• Emotional Trauma: Children and adults alike may suffer lasting psychological impacts, including anxiety and PTSD, after a dog attack.

At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., we work to ensure every aspect of a dog bite injury—physical, emotional, and financial—is thoroughly documented and reflected in your claim for compensation.

The aftereffects of a dog bite may require extensive rehabilitation, scar revision procedures, or ongoing counseling. For residents of Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, we facilitate collaboration with area care providers like Lee Health to ensure proper documentation of treatment and long-term needs. By working closely with a dedicated dog bite lawyer in Fort Myers, victims are empowered to seek full and fair compensation for both immediate and future impacts of their injuries.

Why You Need an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

Filing a dog bite claim in Florida involves complex legal and insurance processes. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your recovery, delay your claim, or even deny it outright. Retaining a compassionate and knowledgeable dog bite attorney in Fort Myers ensures that your interests are protected and your claim is pursued with diligence.

At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., we have over 30 years of experience supporting dog bite victims throughout Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Naples, and Southwest Florida. Our legal team—led by the husband-and-wife partners David and Kristin Pittman—offers client-centered service and dedicated guidance throughout the claims process.

A qualified Fort Myers dog bite lawyer from our team will assess all aspects of your situation, advise on the relevant laws, and handle each procedural step. We coordinate with local healthcare providers, gather crucial documentation, and ensure compliance with city and county ordinances, such as reporting bites to Lee County Animal Services. Our strong familiarity with the local court system and insurance practices enables us to strategically manage your claim, keeping you informed and confident throughout the process.

The Dog Bite Claim Process in Fort Myers, FL

Understanding the dog bite claim process in Fort Myers is essential to securing fair compensation. After ensuring your immediate safety and medical needs are addressed, it is critical to gather thorough evidence by documenting your injuries, collecting witness information, and reporting the attack. Our team at Pittman Law Firm, P.L. will then file notice with Lee County Animal Services as required, and begin securing official records relevant to your case. Proper documentation is vital for establishing the facts necessary for a successful dog bite injury claim.

Throughout this process, your Fort Myers dog bite attorney will communicate directly with insurance companies and advise you on how to avoid common pitfalls that may harm your case. Rapid settlement offers from insurance representatives should be approached with caution, as they often undervalue your injuries and long-term needs. Our team is committed to negotiating for the maximum compensation available and providing you with honest, transparent communication at every stage. With a reputation for perseverance and local insight, Pittman Law Firm, P.L. stands by your side until your claim is resolved.

Seeking Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite victims in Fort Myers and the surrounding areas may be eligible for several types of compensation. Our dog bite lawyers in Fort Myers can help you pursue damages for the following:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, and follow-up therapies
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering related to the physical and emotional trauma
• Emotional distress and psychological effects
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Our legal team at Pittman Law Firm, P.L. works diligently to thoroughly investigate every dog attack, secure strong evidence, and build a compelling case for the maximum compensation you deserve as a result of your injuries.

Because many Fort Myers dog bite claims involve homeowners’ insurance policies or negotiations with local property owners, our experience handling these matters enables us to efficiently navigate both the legal and practical steps involved. We ensure no aspect of your loss is overlooked, working with regional experts—including physicians at Golisano Children’s Hospital and Lee Memorial Hospital—to provide comprehensive support for your case. Our tailored representation is designed to reflect your unique circumstances and maximize your recovery under Florida law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Fort Myers?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit—including in Fort Myers—is generally four years from the date of the injury. This deadline is critical: if you do not file your lawsuit within this timeframe, you may be unable to pursue your claim. However, there are unique situations that could affect the specific deadline in your case, such as injuries involving minors or incidents with delayed medical complications. It is also important to promptly report dog bite incidents to Lee County Animal Services or other relevant local agencies, as some local procedures may differ. Consulting a dog bite lawyer in Fort Myers immediately after the incident ensures that all deadlines are met and your legal rights are fully protected. The team at Pittman Law Firm, P.L. can assess your specific timeline and guide you through every step.

Can I Receive Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault for the Dog Bite?

Florida applies a comparative negligence rule to dog bite cases, which means that if you are found partially at fault for the incident—such as if you provoked the dog or were on private property without permission—your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your share of responsibility. You are generally still entitled to seek damages, but any award you receive could be adjusted according to your degree of fault. It's essential to work closely with a dog bite attorney in Fort Myers who will carefully investigate the facts, present your claim effectively, and minimize any efforts by the opposing party to increase your responsibility. At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., we ensure your rights are protected and your side of the story is clearly represented throughout the process.

What Should I Do If the Dog’s Owner Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If the responsible dog owner in Fort Myers lacks applicable homeowners’ or renters’ insurance, you are not without options for recovering compensation. In these cases, pursuing a personal injury claim in civil court may be necessary, and our firm is prepared to guide you through every legal avenue. Our team will assess the potential for recovery from the dog owner directly and explore whether any applicable local resources or victim compensation funds are available for your situation. Working with a seasoned Fort Myers dog bite lawyer ensures all avenues for recovery are explored and maximized according to Florida law and local practices.

Contact Pittman Law Firm, P.L. Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog attack in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Naples, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, Pittman Law Firm, P.L. is available to help you understand your options and pursue justice. Our Fort Myers dog bite attorney team understands the long-term impact of serious injuries and is committed to holding negligent parties accountable for your pain and loss.

Call us today or visit our offices in Fort Myers or Bonita Springs to schedule a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.