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Former Insurance Company Attorney with Over 25 Years of Trial Experience

The Opposing Side's Knowledge Working for You

Will Stand-Your-Ground Defense Save Padi?

Padi, the dog from Manatee County, Florida has been making global headlines after the rescued black Labrador-mix, and veterinary clinic greeter bit off the earlobe of a 4-year-old child. Padi’s owner, veterinarian Paul Gartenberg, claims that his dog was provoked by the child. He says that the dog attempted to flee from the child and hid under the front desk, yet the child still continued to close in on Padi and eventually cornered the dog. Padi lashed out and bit the child.

In most situations, Padi would be euthanised immediately and he still faces the possibility of being put down. However, both Gartenberg and his attorney argue that our state’s current dog bite statute is inconsistent with both the dog bite tort law and the stand your ground defense.

What Is the Stand-Your-Ground Defense?

Florida is what is known as a “stand your ground” state. Through this law, individuals can claim that they lawfully have the right to use any level of force if they believe that they are facing an immediate and imminent threat of serious harm or death. In Padi’s situation, a judge is continuing to deliberate whether or not the “stand your ground” defense could be applied to this case.

What You Should Know About Dog Bites in Florida

The dog bite victims whom we see here at the Law Offices of Keith Bregoff often come to us with a number of questions. To help you get the most out of your consultation with Mr. Bregoff, we have put together a list of the most common questions we receive here at our firm:

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog-Bite Lawsuit?

In the state of Florida, injured persons must file a lawsuit within four years of the date they were bitten by the dog. If this deadline is missed, it is likely that the court will throw out your case.

What Compensation Can I Expect from a Dog-Bite Claim?

A number of items may be covered in the compensation you would receive should you win your case. Some of the most common items which you would be compensated for include:

  • Current and future medical treatment costs
  • Pain and suffering and mental anguish
  • Lost wages for time lost at work
  • Compensation if you needed to change jobs (including any additional training one would need to take to perform a new job)

When Should I Seek Legal Assistance?

The best time to seek legal assistance is as soon as possible. Mr. Bregoff is a very experienced and compassionate Vero Beach personal injury attorney who has helped ensure the positive outcome of a number of dog bite cases.

We invite you to call us today at (772) 492-8967 to arrange a free consultation to discuss your case.

The Law Offices of Keith Bregoff PA - 2017 - 2024
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