Dogs are often referred to as “man’s best friend,” for a good reason. They bring joy, companionship and loyalty into our lives. These beloved animals offer comfort and have a special place in our hearts. But despite thousands of years of domestication, dogs remain animals with instincts that, when triggered, can lead to biting and harm to humans.

If you’re a victim of a dog bite, it’s essential to understand the legal aspects of your situation and the potential pathway to compensation. At Kanner & Pintaluga, we are here to guide you through the process of seeking justice and compensation if you’ve been recently attacked by a dog.

The Concept of Strict Liability in Dog Bite Cases

Dog bite cases in Florida are built on the concept of strict liability. In this context means a dog owner is held responsible when their dog bites someone, irrespective of whether the dog has previously exhibited signs of aggression or whether the owner was overtly negligent in their actions.

From a dog bite victim’s perspective, it’s only necessary to prove that you were bitten by the owner’s dog, not that the owner was negligent in their handling of their pet. However, things can become complicated if the owner or their insurance company alleges the dog bite victim provoked the attack. It may be necessary for a dog bite attorney to investigate the situation, compile evidence and clearly demonstrate the dog bite owner should be held liable for the actions of their pet.

By owning a dog, one implicitly accepts the responsibility to ensure the safety of not only the dog itself but also those who come into contact with it. If the owner fails to follow all the necessary laws when their pet is in public – or when their pet is around invited guests on their personal property – they may be held liable for injuries that result.

Understanding Dangerous Breeds

Certain dog breeds are often considered more dangerous due to factors such as size, strength or a history of aggressive incidents. Examples of such breeds include: