It is often said that dogs are man’s best friend, and this is most often the case when dogs are properly trained by their owners. Canines save countless of lives, give emotional support, and provide aid to the handicapped. However, dogs need to be trained properly. If not, they may feel scared, defensive, or threatened around other humans or animals, and bite them in fear or anger.
Some states have a “One bite” rule which allow owner’s leniency the first time their dog bites someone else. Florida is NOT one of those states. A dog owner is liable the first time their dog bites someone else. If a dog has posed a threat in the past, it may be labeled a “Dangerous dog”, which must be secured on private property. A “Dangerous Dog” owner will be held liable for more damages if their dog attacks someone.
What to do if bitten:
Get medical treatment right away.
Some states have a “One bite” rule which allow owner’s leniency the first time their dog bites someone else. Florida is NOT one of those states. A dog owner is liable the first time their dog bites someone else. If a dog has posed a threat in the past, it may be labeled a “Dangerous dog”, which must be secured on private property. A “Dangerous Dog” owner will be held liable for more damages if their dog attacks someone.
What to do if bitten:
Get medical treatment right away.
Photograph bite area.
Obtain dog bite report from medical facility.
You have four years to file a claim in civil court.
Hire an experienced dog bite attorney who will check public records to see if the dog has a history as a dangerous animal.
Responsibilities of dog owners:
Do not let your dog run loose.
Responsibilities of dog owners:
Do not let your dog run loose.
Keep dogs inside fenced areas.
Post a “Bad Dog” or “Beware of Dog” sign on your property in a visible area.
Always have dog on a leash of in public areas.
Owners of dogs are responsible for the actions of their pets, and if their dog bites someone else, they are liable for damages. However damages may be reduced if it is shown person bitten had not acted responsibly. In dog bite cases, the courts will look at the negligence of the owner as well as the negligence of the person bitten. This is called comparative negligence.
For example, a friend comes over for dinner, and while looking for the bathroom accidentally trips over the family dog and gets bitten. The courts may rule the dinner guest’s negligence at 20% and the homeowner’s negligence at 80%. So a $10,000 reward will be reduced to $8,000.
Recovering from a dog bite injury and determining responsibility can be a very difficult task. You deserve to be compensated fully for the injuries you have suffered because of the negligence of another. Bidner Injury Law has the experience and knowledge to fight for what you rightfully deserve.
To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Car Accident Attorney Mark Bidner, or another Bidner Injury Law firm attorney, call 786-765-4120.
Owners of dogs are responsible for the actions of their pets, and if their dog bites someone else, they are liable for damages. However damages may be reduced if it is shown person bitten had not acted responsibly. In dog bite cases, the courts will look at the negligence of the owner as well as the negligence of the person bitten. This is called comparative negligence.
For example, a friend comes over for dinner, and while looking for the bathroom accidentally trips over the family dog and gets bitten. The courts may rule the dinner guest’s negligence at 20% and the homeowner’s negligence at 80%. So a $10,000 reward will be reduced to $8,000.
Recovering from a dog bite injury and determining responsibility can be a very difficult task. You deserve to be compensated fully for the injuries you have suffered because of the negligence of another. Bidner Injury Law has the experience and knowledge to fight for what you rightfully deserve.
To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Car Accident Attorney Mark Bidner, or another Bidner Injury Law firm attorney, call 786-765-4120.
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