Florida is a strict liability state regarding dog bites, enforcing what is known as the Dangerous Dog Law. Florida Statute 767.04 states that dog owners in Florida are responsible for any injuries and damage their dog causes if it bites someone in a public place, such as a community garden or shopping center’s parking lot. The owners are also responsible for dog bite injuries to people visiting their homes. This is true whether or not the owner knew that their dog was prone to biting, and it applies regardless of whether this is their dog’s first attack or one of many.
Florida law also states that dog owners are accountable for any financial burdens and legal consequences that may arise if their dog inflicts serious harm or causes a fatality. Owners of such dogs could face fines or imprisonment for up to a year if their dog causes serious harm to someone. In the tragic event that the dog caused someone’s death, the owner could face charges and harsh penalties.
What qualifies a dog as dangerous?
According to Florida law, a dog’s prior behavior may qualify it as dangerous. For example, a dog may be considered dangerous if it has attacked or bitten a human or another domestic animal without cause. This also holds if the dog has experience with animal fighting or has been taught to do so.
What to do if you are bitten or attacked by a dog
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Florida, it’s important to seek emergency medical assistance as your first step. This is vital for your well-being and for documenting your injuries, which may be needed for a personal injury lawsuit.
Once you’ve received medical attention, you should gather evidence of the attack. This includes obtaining witness accounts, securing the dog owner’s contact information and taking photos of your injuries and the scene of the incident. Then, seek further information on how to file a personal injury claim.