A dog bite injury is painful, traumatic and dangerous. No one wants to punish a pet for biting a person, but someone has to pay for the damages.
Find out how Florida determines liability in dog bite cases for your personal injury claim.
Who is at fault if a dog bites you?
According to the Florida legislature, pet owners are liable for personal injuries from their dogs’ bites, whether on public or private property, with very little exception.
What should you do if a dog bites you?
If a dog bites you, seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can treat your wounds to prevent further damage and provide documentation of your injuries for your claim. Be sure to save your receipts and any other records from your medical visits, including X-rays and detailed doctor’s notes.
When is a dog owner not liable for personal injury claims?
The pet owner is responsible for personal injury claims due to dog bites in all cases but one. If a homeowner has a sign prominently displayed that reads “Bad Dog,” and a person ventures onto the private property anyway, the owner is not liable for any damage incurred. Yet, if the person bit is under 6 years old in the same circumstances, the owner is still responsible for personal injuries.
There is a statute of limitations on personal injury claims for dog bites. If you or a loved one has been bit by someone’s pet, you may need to act fast to ensure that you receive the compensation you need to recover.