Florida is a state of strict liability when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for any injuries caused by their pet, even if they had no prior knowledge or warning that the dog might bite. According to Florida Statute Section 767.0, the owner of the dog is responsible for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the dog's prior cruelty or the owners' knowledge of such cruelty. Injured parties do not have to prove liability in these cases; liability is inherent.
In order to protect the health, safety and general welfare of the public, public food service establishments must request and receive a permit from the local government governing body before allowing customers' dogs to enter their premises. If a dog's bite results in permanent disability or disfigurement, such as scarring, loss of visual abilities, or permanent nerve damage, uneconomic costs of pain and suffering can also be sought in an agreement. If you are a victim of a dog bite, you can seek and recover monetary compensation for injuries and damages that may have cost you money, such as medical bills and lost wages. Every state has laws on the books that limit the time a person has to file a dog bite lawsuit.
In Florida, you must file your lawsuit within four years after the incident. If you try to file your lawsuit after this deadline has passed, the court will almost certainly dismiss it. It is also stated that it is public policy of the state for animal control agencies and humanitarian organizations to adopt policies and procedures to help return lost cats or dogs to identified owners. If an owner's dog attacks another dog and the owner of the other dog is injured protecting his pet, they can be held liable.
In order to comply with Florida's dog bite laws, owners must obtain a registration certificate for their pet from the animal control authority serving their area within 14 days after the issuance of the final order classifying the dog as dangerous or the conclusion of any appeal confirming such final order. They must also renew this certificate annually. Additionally, owners must post a sign on their property warning people that there is a dangerous dog present. This sign will not protect them if the victim of the dog bite is under the age of six or if they were negligent in relation to the incident.
