Dog Bites

Since the late 1990’s, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually, resulting in an estimated 800,000 injuries, and 20 deaths per year. Seventy percent of the bites occurred on the dog owner’s property.

Sometimes the bite injuries are slight and amount to nothing, and sometimes they result in horrible scarring, pain, disfigurement and occasionally even death.

The law in Florida is quite clear that the owner of a dog is strictly liable, which means they are responsible for any and all damages caused by their dog. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog , it is important to be able to identify the dog and more importantly identify the dog’s owner.

Also, seek medical attention immediately, and contact county animal control to report the bite, as well as the police.

Generally speaking homeowner’s insurance will cover injuries caused from dog bites. Lately, insurance companies are writing language in homeowners’ policies which excludes liability for dog bites. If you are a victim, contact an experienced injury lawyer.