What Happens When A Dog Bites You In Florida?
Corbin Sutter
Personal Injury
Under Florida law, dog bites are seen as a personal injury and therefore can hold the owner of the dog accountable. The dog is considered an owner’s responsibility and liability. When it attacks another person, regardless of its breed or intention, as long as it has caused harm, the victim can file for a personal injury claim. However, there are also other things that you should take note of when you get bitten by a dog in Florida.How To Determine A Dog Owner’s Liability For A Dog Bite
There are two factors to check before a personal injury claim can be filed following a dog bite.
• The first and obvious factor would be to prove that the dog has indeed bitten another individual, whether it is the owner’s friend or a stranger. Other injuries that are sustained following a dog attack such as broken bones and bruises can also be considered when proven that the attack was caused by the owner’s carelessness and negligence.
• The second factor is that the bite happened in a public place or a private space where the victim is lawfully allowed to be. This includes couriers and deliverymen who would walk into private properties to bring goods to your doorstep.
With that said, dog bites that happened in the event of a trespassing incident are not the liability of the owner. There are also cases when the owner’s accountability can be reduced when proven that the victim has provoked the dog or contributed to the attack in any way.
In the event that the dog has been proven to have a history of hostility or has been known for dangerous attacks, the owner can also be held criminally accountable.
When Can You File A Personal Injury Case After A Dog Bite?
Florida allows you to file a personal injury claim and lawsuit within 4 years after the incident. Failing to do so within the given time period will automatically dismiss your case and will render you unable to claim any compensation.
What Injuries Can You Get From A Dog Bite?
Aside from dog bites, dog attacks can also give you other injuries such as broken bones from falling over, bruises and scratches, puncture wounds, and possible infections. Emotional and mental damages can also take place following a dog attack. Victims can suffer from trauma, anxiety, and fear of dogs for possible a long period of time. These injuries would require medical attention that can cost a lot depending on how grave it is.
Filing a personal injury claim can help you cover the expenses for treating a dog bite and other injuries you got from a dog attack.
Dog bites and attacks are more common than you think and you can file a personal injury claim if you happen to become a victim. Personal injury lawyers can easily help you with your case and claim.