Jay M. Fisher P.A.

Jay M. Fisher, P.A.
875 Concourse Parkway South
Suite 195
Maitland, Florida 32751
Telephone: 407-628-3015
Fax: 407-628-3909
Email: jmfpa@jaymfisherpa.com

Personal Injury

Dog Bites

The Florida Legislature considers dangerous dogs to be “an increasingly serious and widespread threat to the safety and welfare of the people of this state.” Florida has enacted a number of laws governing dog bite liability, including laws that can mean criminal charges in certain circumstances if the dog was previously declared dangerous, or the owner acted recklessly, and serious injury or death occurred.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that close to 5 millions people a year are bitten by dogs, with an estimated 800,000 injuries requiring medical attention.

Who is liable for a dog bite?

If you have been the victim of a bite by any dog while in a public place or lawfully on private property, the owner of the dog is most likely liable for your injuries. Under Florida law, a dog owner is liable for injuries inflicted by his or her pet even if the dog has shown no previous indications of viciousness. The owner of the dog is liable without consideration for his lack of knowledge regarding his dog’s predisposition for violence.

What to do if you have suffered a dog bite:

Get Medical Attention.
	It is important to receive medical attention directly following the accident. Some injuries that you have suffered may not be immediately apparent at the time of the accident. Seeking medical attention will give you a better idea of the extent of your injuries. Be sure to advise the doctor of the dog’s vaccination status so that you may be treated for rabies if necessary.
Report the Accident.
	Notify the local police or animal control officials of the incident. They will not only help to organize the situation, but they will write a report. This is useful in determining who was at fault for the accident and may be used as evidence in your lawsuit.
Obtain Contact Information.
	•	Obtain the name, address, and phone number of the dog’s owner. If there were any other witnesses to the situation, also obtain their names, addresses, and phone numbers.
	•	Obtain the name of the dog owner’s homeowners insurance company, as well as the address and phone number.
	•	Obtain the name of the dog as well as any indentifying features, such as the breed, age, and vaccination history. Also make a not of whether the dog is registered.
	•	Note the location and time that the accident occurred and how it happened. Be sure to include all events leading up to the accident and note if someone has admitted fault to it.
	•	Take photos of your injuries. This is important both immediately after the accident and during the healing process. Documenting the progression of your injuries with photographs will help show the extent to which you were injured.

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