Best Dog Bite Attorneys in Tallahassee

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Tallahassee, Florida?

  850-606-5800 is the non-emergency contact number for the Tallahassee Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Tallahassee, Florida?

  You can file a police report request at the Tallahassee Police Department's Records Section, located at 234 East 7th Avenue, Tallahassee, Florida, 32303. You can also request through the online portal https://tallahasseepdfl.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest.

• Is a Tallahassee dog owner liable for the victim's injuries even if the dog has never shown any signs of violence in the past?

  Yes. According to Florida Statute Section 767.04, the dog's owner in Tallahassee that inflicts a bite on an individual becomes legally accountable for the injuries sustained by the victim. This law applies to someone in a public place or lawfully present on private property, even if it is the property of the dog owner. This legal responsibility remains valid irrespective of the dog's previous aggressive behavior or the owner's awareness of such behavior.

• Is there a need to report a dog bite incident to the police and the City of Tallahassee Animal Control?

  Yes. Law enforcement and animal regulation agencies may investigate the situation involving the victim to ascertain whether the dog has previously attacked others within Tallahassee. This assessment aims to establish whether the animal poses an immediate danger to the well-being and safety of the community. Additionally, animal control authorities might be required to evaluate the dog's physical condition and demeanor to gauge the potential of it spreading illnesses such as rabies.

• Can dog owners be absolved of liability for injuries to a dog bite victim if there is a "Bad Dog" sign on their private property in Tallahassee?

  According to Florida Statute Section 767.04, Tallahassee dog owners who display a prominently positioned "Bad Dog" sign on their property may not be held accountable for injuries suffered by individuals while on their premises. Nonetheless, this exemption does not extend to children younger than six years old.

• Which types of dog bite injuries are commonly reported in Tallahassee?

  The common types of dog bite injuries reported in Tallahassee include puncture wounds, which can lead to discomfort, bleeding, and the risk of infection. In some animal attack incidents, the dog might vigorously shake its head, potentially causing harm to muscles, tendons, and nerves. Additionally, larger dog breeds like Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Pitbulls have the potential to inflict broken bones.

• How long should Tallahassee dog bite victims file personal injury claims against negligent dog owners?

  Tallahassee abides by Florida's four-year timeframe for initiating legal actions against negligent dog owners. This period commences on the day of the actual dog bite occurrence. If a claim is not filed within this specified period, the victim may lose the right to pursue fair compensation. After the deadline of the statute of limitations, the accused party can present the "statute of limitations" defense in a court of law, potentially leading to the dismissal of the case.