ANIMAL ATTACK & DOG BITE IN FLORIDA?

If you have been a victim of an animal attack or dog bite in Florida, you have legal remedies available to you. As a matter of fact, Florida law recognizes the concepts of negligence and intentional tort, allowing victims to seek compensation for various damages. So, these may include medical bills, future medical treatment, lost income, pain and suffering, and even emotional trauma in certain cases. Therefore, to navigate the legal process and maximize your chances of obtaining compensation, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of an experienced and dedicated Florida dog bite lawyer.

Strict Liability for Animal Attacks & Dog Bites in Florida

Florida law provides clear guidelines regarding animal attacks and dog bites attacks in Florida. If a dog bites someone in a public place, the owner is held responsible. Moreover, the owner can be liable even if the bite occurs in a private place, as long as the victim is lawfully present, including being on the owner’s property. This liability encompasses any damages suffered by the victim. Florida’s stance on this matter is further reinforced by the statute’s treatment of prior knowledge of the dog’s viciousness. Regardless of the dog’s previous displays of aggression or the owner’s knowledge (or lack thereof) of the dog’s viciousness, liability is imposed in Florida.

While Florida holds dog owners accountable for bites, it does not overlook any contributing negligence on the part of the victim. Under Florida law (specifically statutes 767.04), the amount of compensation awarded for damages will be reduced proportionally to the victim’s negligence reasonably connected to the biting incident. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise due caution or care. Florida follows the doctrine of pure comparative negligence, which balances liability based on individual responsibility. For instance, if an individual taunts a dog and is partially responsible for the incident, the awarded compensation may be reduced accordingly.

Steps to Take If You Are a Dog Bite or Animal Attack Victim in Florida

Dog bites and animal attacks are a widespread concern, in fact, a staggering 800,000 dog bite victims in the U.S. seeking medical attention each year. The most vulnerable to such incidents such as children, the elderly, and home care service providers. Therefore, to address this issue effectively, it’s vital to take appropriate steps if you find yourself in such a situation.

When encountering an unfamiliar dog, experts advise adopting a non-threatening stance, standing tall like a tree, and allowing the dog to approach if it wishes to. So, avoid making eye contact if you prefer the dog not to approach and refrain from panicking or making loud noises. It’s important to note that while certain breeds, such as pit bulls and rottweilers, are often associated with aggression, scientific evidence supporting this claim remains limited. The truth is, any dog, regardless of its size or breed, can cause serious harm and leave lasting negative emotions, especially in young children. In unfortunate cases where a loved one is killed by a dog, it may be possible to seek justice through a wrongful death lawsuit against the owner.