If you’ve been searching for a Vero Beach, FL dog bit lawyer, you need guidance from someone who understands Florida’s changing legal standards. Tuttle Larsen, P.A. offers compassionate and knowledgeable representation for victims of serious dog attacks. Our firm holds a Board-Certified Civil Trial Lawyer designation, has secured millions in settlements, and earned recognition from Super Lawyers and The National Trial Lawyers Top 100. Schedule a free initial consultation at our Vero Beach offices to explore how we can help.
Dog Bite Lawyer Vero Beach, FL
Dog attacks can leave victims with lasting injuries, physically, emotionally, and financially. In Florida, recent legislation has placed greater accountability on dog owners through the Pam Rock Act, a powerful update to state law that honors the memory of a postal worker tragically killed by a pack of dogs in 2022.
Under this law, which takes effect July 1, 2025, the legal consequences for dog owners are far more severe. A dog no longer needs a known bite history for its owner to face criminal charges. If a dog seriously injures or kills someone, the owner may now be charged with a third-degree felony, even on a first offense.
The law also imposes new responsibilities on owners of dogs deemed dangerous. These include:
- Mandatory microchipping and sterilization
- Maintaining a minimum of $100,000 in liability insurance
- Annual registration of the animal with local authorities
In addition, local animal control agencies have more authority to impound dogs that show dangerous behavior, even before an attack occurs. These decisions are based on the Dunbar Bite Scale, a widely used tool that categorizes bite severity from Level 1 (no skin contact) to Level 6 (fatal injury). Dogs scoring at Level 5 or above may be humanely euthanized if deemed a threat to public safety.
At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., we stay ahead of these legal changes to better protect victims. Our Vero Beach, FL dog bite lawyers understand how to evaluate your case using both existing dog bite statutes and the expanded powers granted by the Pam Rock Act. We’ll pursue every avenue of compensation, from medical bills and lost wages to emotional trauma and pain.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack, these new protections mean you may now have stronger grounds to pursue justice and financial recovery. Let our team provide the legal clarity and strength you need to move forward.
Why Experience Matters In Dog Bite Cases
Handling a dog bite claim under Florida’s new law requires a firm that pairs legal acumen with courtroom pedigree:
- Board-Certified Civil Trial Lawyer, Douglas W. Tuttle, one of an elite group in Florida
- Recognized by Super Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and Florida Trend’s Legal Elite
- Over 30 years of combined experience in Florida personal injury litigation
- Deep familiarity with insurance claims, medical evidence, and behavior-based dog laws
- Proven track record for securing large settlements for bite victims
- Compassionate approach, evidenced by high client satisfaction and strong local reputation
“I originally went to another attorney who never responded to me, after only a few months the case was resolved. You won’t find a better attorneys’ office.” – Manace G.
As Florida’s dog bite laws evolve, victims deserve representation that understands both legal nuance and compassion. Tuttle Larsen, P.A. is ready to guide you through the implications of the Pam Rock Act and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Schedule a free initial consultation at our Vero Beach offices and let us stand with you.
Types Of Dog Bite Accident Cases We Handle
Dog attacks can take many forms, and each situation presents different challenges for those who have been hurt. While some incidents may involve minor scratches, others can result in lasting injuries that affect daily life. Our Vero Beach, FL dog bite lawyer has seen a wide range of cases and understands the different ways these accidents happen. By looking at these scenarios, we can better explain how victims may be impacted and what legal options are available.
Attacks In Public Spaces
Many incidents occur in public areas such as sidewalks, parks, or shopping centers. In these settings, victims often have no prior connection to the dog or its owner. These cases may involve issues of leash laws, property responsibilities, and whether proper control measures were in place. Because public areas are shared by everyone, the legal process often requires a close review of local ordinances and how the dog owner acted before the attack.
Injuries On Private Property
Another common scenario happens when a person is invited onto private property. This could include visiting a friend’s home, delivering packages, or working as a contractor. In these cases, property liability may be part of the discussion, and whether the dog had shown aggression in the past can be important. Our Vero Beach dog bite lawyer often sees situations where the victim was simply going about their job or on a social visit when the incident occurred.
Accidents Involving Children
Children are, unfortunately, frequent victims of dog attacks. Because of their smaller size and inability to protect themselves, the injuries can be more severe. These cases often involve bites to the face, head, or arms. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, there can also be long-term effects that impact a child’s confidence and well-being. These types of cases require careful handling because of the added emotional weight and the potential for lasting damage.
Cases With Severe Or Lasting Injuries
Some dog bite accidents cause injuries that require long-term care, such as deep lacerations, nerve damage, or permanent scarring. These cases may involve reconstructive surgery, extended recovery, or ongoing therapy. Our expereinced Vero Beach dog bite lawyer sees victims who not only face medical bills but also deal with changes in their ability to work or carry out daily activities. The impact of these injuries is often both physical and financial, and proper legal support can be vital in seeking fair recovery.
Incidents With Multiple Parties Involved
There are situations where more than one person may be responsible for what happened. For example, a landlord may know that a tenant’s dog has been dangerous in the past, but fails to act. Or a property manager may allow unsafe conditions that contribute to the accident. In these cases, identifying all responsible parties can be an important step in protecting the rights of the injured person.
Moving Forward After A Dog Bite
Every situation is different, but what stays the same is the need for clear guidance after being injured. At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., we are committed to helping victims understand their options and pursue the support they need. If you or someone you love has been harmed in a dog bite accident, we encourage you to reach out to our award-winning team. Taking action can be an important step in protecting your health, your rights, and your future.