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Fort Lauderdale Dog Bite Lawyers, Fort Lauderdale Dog Bite Attorneys - Edward F. Holodak, P.A.
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Broward Dog Bite Lawyers

The destructive physical and psychological trauma of a dog attack requires compassionate legal representation.Since its inception,the attorneys at Edward F. Holodak, P.A. have represented dog bite victims and their families recover just compensation throughout Broward County, including Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines and surrounding cities.

Broward County Victims


Most dog bite victims are children or elderly -- the most vulnerable age groups with the lowest chance of fending off an animal attack. Because of their size, young children sustain the most severe injuries, often to the face, head and neck. A child attacked by a dog and bitten above the shoulders is equivalent to an adult sustaining a bear bite. [1] Soft tissue wounds, hypertrophic scars, disfigurement and death can result. Young victims often suffer prolonged psychological side effects of nightmares and fear of dogs.


Dog bite victims not always are directly engaged with an animal when the incident occurs. Children playing or riding bicycles and seniors out for a stroll are at risk of being attacked by vicious dogs. [2]


The Biting Breeds


Pit bulls lead the pack of Florida dog breeds that bite, maim and kill. More than 180 pit bull attacks were reported in 2007 in Broward County, three times as many as the next most reported breeds -- German shepherds and rotweilers. [3] Between 2006 and 2008, 59 percent of nationwide deaths due to dog attacks were caused by pit bulls. Reported attacks by pit bulls also were more random, crossing gender, age and dog owner property lines. [4]


Broward County Dog Bite Ordinances


It takes just one bite to render a dog dangerous and an owner held liable. [1] A dog owner is responsible regardless of whether or not the dog's aggressive tendencies are known, or where the attack takes place. Provocation of a dog by a bite victim is considered by Florida courts, but a provoked dog attack must be proven. Children under 6, who cannot be expected to fully understand what would make a dog lose control, are not held responsible for provoking an attack.


The type of lawsuit filed depends on the individual circumstances of a victim's dog attack. Medical needs, wage losses and long-term pain and suffering are among the many factors considered that determine the appropriate legal approach. In most cases, settlements are reached well before a case reaches court.


The dog bite lawyers at Edward F. Holodak, P.A. offer expert, sensitive representation and strive to procure maximum financial recovery for dog bite victims throughout Broward County, including Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood and Pembroke Pines.

2. Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/117/3/e374/T2.expansion.html