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Dog Bite
Bitten by a dog in Florida? We recover medical bills, lost wages, and damages from the owner's insurance.
Dog Bite Injuries in Florida
Dog bites can cause deep puncture wounds, infections, nerve and tissue damage, permanent scarring, and lasting emotional trauma, especially in children. Florida is one of the stronger states for bite victims because it imposes strict liability on dog owners. Under Florida Statute 767.04, an owner is generally liable for a bite that occurs in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property, regardless of whether the dog had ever bitten anyone before or shown aggression, a rule you can read in the Florida Statutes.
Because liability does not depend on the dog's history, the focus shifts to the injuries and the available insurance. Most claims are paid through the owner's homeowners or renters policy, which usually covers dog-bite liability. Damages can include medical and reconstructive surgery costs, lost wages, scarring and disfigurement, and pain and suffering.
Comparative-fault and trespass issues can affect a claim, so it is important to document the circumstances of the bite carefully.
This is part of our Personal Injury practice. Related premises matters include homeowner negligence and negligent security. Review our case results, learn about Attorney Edward G. Jimenez, or request a free consultation by calling (321) 465-3425.
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Florida's Strict Liability Rule
Unlike states that follow a 'one bite' rule, Florida holds owners strictly liable under Statute 767.04 for bites that happen in public or to a person lawfully on private property. That means a victim usually does not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. There are limits, including reduced recovery for a victim's own negligence and special rules where a clearly posted 'Bad Dog' sign applies, which we evaluate based on the facts of your case.
Where Compensation Comes From
Most dog-bite claims are paid by the owner's homeowners or renters insurance, which commonly includes liability coverage for animal injuries. Identifying the right policy and owner is an early priority, particularly when the dog belongs to a tenant, a landlord's property is involved, or the owner is a relative. We locate the available coverage and pursue it for your medical care, lost income, and the scarring and trauma a serious bite leaves behind.
Steps to Protect a Bite Claim
After a bite, get medical care immediately to treat the wound and prevent infection, then photograph the injuries and the location, identify the dog and its owner, and report the bite to animal control as required. Keep records of every treatment and expense. For children, the emotional and cosmetic impact is taken especially seriously, and court approval may be needed to settle a minor's claim. Call Jimenez Legal at (321) 465-3425 or request a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, owners are generally liable for bites regardless of whether the dog showed aggression before.
You may recover medical bills, lost wages, scarring, and pain and suffering from the bite.
Often the owner's homeowners or renters insurance covers dog bite claims.
Get medical care, photograph the wounds, identify the owner, and report the bite as required.
Child bite cases are taken seriously, and special rules may apply to protecting a minor's claim and settlement.
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