There are over 1,200 dog bite attacks in Florida annually, many of which require extensive medical attention and leave debilitating, lasting injuries. If you are a bite victim, Florida dog bite law may allow you to sue the owner for compensation.
The Simmons Law Group has several years of experience in Florida personal injury law. Through our advocacy, we have received millions in compensation for our clients. We know how traumatizing a dog bite can be, so we strive to make our clients whole again.
If you would like representation for personal injury law in Altamonte Springs by the Simmons Law Group, contact us to schedule a case evaluation!
Florida Dog Bite Liability
Florida dog bite laws, like many other states, operate on a standard of strict liability. That means dog owners can be liable for dog bite injuries, even if the owner did not exhibit negligence or the dog does not have a history of aggressive behavior.
Practically speaking, strict liability standards mean that the owner almost always shares some fault for a dog bite, with few exceptions. Strict liability for dog owners may not apply if
- The victim was trespassing on the owner’s land
- The dog is a police or military unit and the bite occurred on the job
- The dog only damaged property
Florida dog bite law also operates on comparative negligence, meaning that the courts can judge victims as partially responsible if they were also behaving negligently. If the court finds the victim partially responsible, they will reduce compensation proportional to the amount of responsibility the victim shares.
If the owner intentionally caused the dog to bite the victim, the victim would be able to sue for monetary compensation The owner, meanwhile, might face a criminal charge of assault or battery.
Statute of Limitations on Dog Bite Injury Cases
Generally speaking, dog bite injury cases in Florida have a four-year statute of limitations. If you do not file a case within four years of the date of the injury, you will lose your chance to pursue financial compensation.
As such, time is of the essence in dog bite injury cases. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to build a convincing case. Personal injury cases can take significant time to proceed, so it’s in your best interest to contact a Florida dog bite attorney as quickly as possible.
Contact an Orlando Dog Bite Injury Attorney Today!
If you or a loved one have sustained a dog bite injury, you need a personal injury attorney on your side that will fight for you. The Simmons Law Group will use our extensive experience and knowledge in Florida dog bite law to pursue the best possible legal outcome. You can count on us to give your case the care and attention you expect.
Be sure to read our blog to learn the facts about personal injury law, and contact us online or call today at (407) 454-3000 to schedule a case consultation!
My journey as a lawyer began after enduring a catastrophic motorcycle accident in 2008, which opened my eyes to the challenges faced by the injured. With years spent defending insurers and understanding their tactics at top law firms, I founded The Simmons Law Group to turn the tables in favor of justice. I’m dedicated to championing the rights of those wronged, using my deep industry knowledge to ensure fair outcomes. If you need a fighter in your corner, contact me for a free consultation.
