Dog Bite Laws: Owner Responsibility and Victim Rights
November 17, 2025
Dog bites happen frequently in the U.S., with millions of incidents each year and many requiring medical attention, according to public health data. Whether you’ve been bitten or are concerned about potential liability as a dog owner, understanding Florida’s dog bite laws and your rights as a victim is crucial. Anyone dealing with a dog bite situation in Miami or the surrounding areas may also benefit from speaking with a personal injury attorney in Miami, FL about how the law applies to their situation.
Florida Law vs. the One-Bite Rule
In some states, the “one-bite rule” applies, meaning a dog owner may only be liable if the dog has previously bitten or shown aggression. Florida law is stricter. Under Florida Statute 767.04, dog owners are generally responsible for bite injuries that occur in a public place or on private property where the victim is lawfully present, even if the dog has never bitten before, though defenses such as provocation or the victim’s negligence can reduce recovery. When victims contact us, a personal accident lawyer can explain how this law affects their case and potential recovery.
Factors That Can Affect Liability
Florida law places responsibility squarely on the dog owner. Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and rehabilitation costs can all be pursued if the dog bite causes injury.
Liability may be reduced if the victim provoked the dog or was comparatively negligent, but these exceptions are limited. For example, a sign including the words “Bad Dog” can provide some protection for the owner in certain situations, but children under six are fully protected regardless of signage. Florida has also adopted new rules for dogs classified as “dangerous” (those that have previously bitten or attacked) including registration, microchipping, and minimum liability insurance, which increase penalties and regulatory requirements for owners of high‑risk dogs, without changing the basic strict‑liability rule for bites.
A personal injury law firm can evaluate the circumstances of a bite to determine how these factors may impact a claim.
Injuries Beyond Bites
Not all dog‑related injuries are bite wounds. Dogs that knock someone down, scratch, or otherwise cause harm may still expose their owners to liability, but these claims are generally evaluated under standard negligence principles rather than the dog‑bite statute. An accident lawyer can review the facts, evidence, and medical records to determine whether a viable negligence claim exists.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Immediate medical attention is critical. Victims should document the injury, gather witness information, and record details about the dog and its owner. Photos of injuries, vaccination records, and statements from bystanders strengthen a claim. We guide victims through these steps, making sure nothing is overlooked. A personal injury lawyer can also handle communications with the dog owner or their representatives, allowing victims to focus on recovery.
Answers to Common Dog Bite Concerns
How long do I have to file a claim after a dog bite in Florida?
The statute of limitations for most Florida personal injury claims, including many dog bite cases, is generally two years from the date of the incident, but exceptions and case‑specific factors can affect this deadline, so prompt legal advice is important.
What damages can be recovered?
Medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for pain and suffering or disfigurement may all be available.
How do I prove the dog bite caused my injuries?
Medical records, photos of the wound, witness statements, and documentation of lost wages or other expenses help establish the connection between the bite and your injuries.
Do I need to report the bite to authorities?
Yes. Florida law encourages reporting bites to local animal control or law enforcement, especially if the dog is unvaccinated or has a history of aggression.
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