It is common for people to have dogs as pets. Typically, people consider dogs a part of their family, but they must remember that a dog is still an animal and not a human. Animals can severely injure a human. Dog owners can be held liable for any injuries caused by their dogs. Although there are some exceptions to their liability. In Florida, dog owners are strictly held liable for any damages or injury caused by the action of their dogs. If you or a loved one has sustained a dog bite injury, contact a devoted Orlando Dog Bite Attorney who can help you recover fair compensation for your injuries.
When is an Owner Liable for a Dog Bite in Florida?
In Florida, a dog owner is held liable for any injury caused by their dog because it is a strict liability state. This means that an owner can be held liable for a dog bite, even if they were not previously aware of the aggressive nature of their dog. Florida dog bite victims should note that they do not have to prove their injuries were a result of an owner’s negligence. A dog owner can be held liable for injuries if it can be proven that they were bitten while either lawfully on private property or in a public area.
What are Exceptions to Liability in Florida?
When a dog bite injury occurs, a dog owner can use a couple of defenses that may hold them liable for the victim’s injuries. In the case that a victim was bitten and was found negligent by any means, the owner may not be held liable. This means if they were guilty of provoking, tormenting, or abusing the dog which ultimately led to the dog injuring the victim. If the person bitten was attempting to trespass or was committing criminal activity, the owner may not be held liable, as the dog was defending its property. If a dog owner had a “bad dog” sign displayed on their property, they might not be held liable. If a dog is a service, hunting, or in the service of a law enforcement agency, its owner may not be held liable. Florida allows certain circumstances for exceptions to an owner’s liability.
When is a Dog Deemed Dangerous?
A dog is deemed dangerous in Florida if it has previously either aggressively bitten, attacked, endangered, or inflicted severe injuries on someone. If an unprovoked dog either chased or menaced a person in a public space such as a park it can be deemed dangerous. If you have been attacked and injured by a dog bite, reach out to an experienced Orlando, Florida Personal Injury Attorneys who can help you determine who is liable for the dog-related injuries.
Contact our experienced Orlando firm
If you or someone you know was injured in an accident and wishes to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact Attorney Schmitt of the Florida Personal Injury Law Team today.
