Tangible and Intangible Damages You Could Be Eligible to Pursue

Every case is different; however, it can be helpful to be aware of some typical losses that a person might be able to include in a dog bite claim. Here are some examples:

  • The medical bills you incurred to treat your dog bite injuries, including the ambulance, emergency room, initial surgeries, doctors, hospital, plastic surgery to reduce or minimize scars, and skin grafts.

  • Your lost income, reflecting when you were away from the job recuperating from your injuries. People automatically assume that you can recover the wages and salary that you missed, but you might be able to go after other forms of income, like self-employment income and tips.

  • Intangible losses, also called non-economic damages, can include things like past and future pain and suffering, psychological distress, and disfigurement. Dog bites frequently involve scars on highly visible areas of the body, like the face, hands, arms, and chest.

How Much Compensation You Could Seek

Some factors that will determine the amount of damages you can pursue include:

  • The severity of your injuries

  • Residual impairment like loss of function, strength, range of motion, and mobility

  • The amount of time you were unable to work because of your injuries

  • How your injuries will impact your ability to work in the future

  • Ongoing psychological consequences like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • Scarring and disfigurement

How Long do You Have to File a Lawsuit in Florida for a Dog Bite Injury?

Florida law only gives you four years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit against the person whose negligence caused you harm. Four years might seem like a long time, but if you have to endure multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and an extended rehabilitation period, the time can go by before you know it.


The four-year time limit contained in Florida Statutes §95.11(3)(a) does not get extended if you are negotiating with the at-fault person or the liable insurance company. You must actually file a lawsuit in court before the deadline if the case is not resolved at the claim level. If you miss the deadline for filing a lawsuit, this law may bar you from going after compensation for your losses.

About Our Firm

We are a team of dedicated attorneys and staff who are committed to advocating on behalf of our clients, and helping them secure the financial compensation to which they are legally entitled. We have families of our own, and are empathetic toward our clients’ needs. Let our family help yours.
Chalik & Chalik Law Offices is a Florida law firm founded by attorneys Jason Chalik and Debi Chalik. We focus exclusively on personal injury so that we can better serve those harmed through the negligence of others. Our practice areas include tire accidents, car accidents, slip and fall accidents, and birth injuries, in addition to areas relevant to our Florida clients, like boating accidents and parasailing accidents.
We pride ourselves on treating all of our clients like family. Our compassionate and dedicated Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys are focused on advocating on behalf of those who are injured and helping them obtain their rightful compensation. Let our team help you and your loved ones.

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