Dog Owner’s Liability for Damages to Dog Bite Victims

Florida is a dog-friendly state. With nice weather and plenty of places to walk dogs, it is likely there is always a dog nearby. Dog owners frequently take their dogs to restaurants with outdoor patios, accompany owners on errands, and can often be found on Florida beaches with families. While these activities are fun and exciting for owners and pets, they open up a potential dog bite scenario. If you are dealing with a dog bite issue or injury, it is important to get medical treatment and seek advice from a Personal Injury firm.

Call us for a free consultation at (904) 396-5181 to discuss your situation.

Florida Statute on Dog Bite Injuries

In Florida, the statute regarding “damage by dogs” states “the owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is on or in a public place, or lawfully on or in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owners’ knowledge of such viciousness.”

How Many Dog Bites Occur in Florida?

Florida ranks 2nd in the country in dog bites that resulted in an insurance claim.

When is a Dog Owner Liable for Dog Bite Injuries and Damages in Florida?

Florida is a strict liability state with regards to dog bites. According to the Florida Statute (FLSA 767.04) a dog owner is liable if:

  • Their dog bites another person
  • The person is in a public place or lawfully in a private place

What is the Average Cost Per Claim for Dog Bites in Florida?

Each case is different. When opening an insurance claim, it is necessary to show the severity of damages and injuries resulting from the bite. This is why it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced dog bite attorney who can evaluate your case and represent your interests.

What the Florida Law Means to Dog Bite Victims

For dog bite victims, this means the dog owner can be held liable for any injuries caused by the dog, including bites or accidents (i.e. tripping over a dog). If you have been a victim of a dog bite, you may seek monetary compensation for your injuries and damages that may have cost money such as medical wages.

What the Florida Dog Bite Law Means to Dog Owners

For the dog owner, this means they may not be liable if the dog bite victim was trespassing. Additionally, the dog owner may raise a defense of comparative negligence on behalf of the dog owner. This means if the victim of the dog bite was partially at fault, the damage amount may be reduced by the percentage of blame between victim and owner.

What is the Deadline to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

In Florida, the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit for a dog bite is two (2) years.

Common Injuries and Damages of Dog Bite Victims in Florida

  • Cuts, bruises, lacerations
  • Abrasions
  • Facial scarring
  • Bite & teeth marks
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Fractures and Broken Bones
  • Permanent Damages

What if Your Dog was Protecting You and Your Family?

Dog owners have the right to defend their dog in bite cases where the dog was defending itself, its owner or owner’s family. This also includes situations when the dog bite victim was trespassing on the owner’s property.

 

Always Involve a Personal Injury Attorney Regarding Dog Bites

If you’ve suffered injuries due to a dog bite or are a dog owner concerned about your situation, getting the help from an experienced dog bite attorney can help you understand your position. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney from Barnes Cohen & Sullivan for a free consultation.