Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Florida
Dog bites can cause lifelong disfigurement and phobias. They must be taken seriously, and Florida does. Florida is one of the few states that has specific dog bite statutes, laid out in Chapter 767 of the 2021 Florida Statutes. If you’ve been bitten, you need to understand these statutes.
over 520+ reviews
Free Case Evaluation
*By submitting this form, you agree to our disclaimer.
Our dog bite injury lawyers in Florida at Andrew Pickett Law have information about this law and what you need to do after you’ve been bitten. Read it, then contact our Florida personal injury lawyers for a free consultation.
Strict Liability Under Florida Law
Many other states use a “one free bite” law under the idea that an owner can’t be liable if they don’t know the dog was aggressive. Florida does not. Under the strict liability rule, the owner of a dog who bites someone is liable for covering the damages, period.
It’s not limited to people either. If a dog attacks another domestic animal or livestock, the owner of those animals can sue the dog owner for the damage or loss of those animals. A dog can even be killed if the shooter can prove the dog had killed or was caught killing one of the shooter’s animals.
First Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Attack
Before contacting a dog bite injury lawyer in Florida, the very first thing you should do is seek medical attention if it’s a serious attack. If you are not badly harmed, take photos of the dog and your injuries and seek witnesses to the attack. If you can, get the owner’s name and contact information.
Then, contact the police and animal control to report the attack and create a record. This will document the attack and help the state determine if the dog has attacked anyone in the past. After you’ve made your report, go see a doctor to get a medical examination.
Are Guard Dogs Liable for Bites?
The law has an exception for dog bite liability for guard dogs, but certain rules must be followed. First, the owner must have a sign that says “Bad Dog” or “Beware of Dog” displayed clearly. Second, the attack must have happened on the owner’s property. Lastly, the owner must have no negligence in the attack.
If these rules are followed, the owner cannot be sued unless the person is under the age of six. An example of owner negligence would be a dog breaking through a perimeter fence to bite someone on the sidewalk in front of the owner’s house.
Free Case Evaluation
Please describe what happened. We will review your case for free and work to secure the highest legal compensation possible.
5000+ Cases Reviewed
Sebastian M.
$200,000 Verdict
"Our family is flat out impressed with the Andrew Pickett Law firm technical mastery, they never wavered with kind direction as our recovery prolonged during the COVID-19, and they delivered the maximum settlement possible."
What If the Owner Isn’t Handling the Dog?
This is where the rules get a bit murkier. Let’s say an owner hands their dog over to a dog walker. During the walk, the dog bites someone. Who is responsible, the owner or the dog walker?
In this case, the courts may decide to fall back on the older common law route since the statute only mentions owners. If you’ve been bit by a dog and are in this situation, you’ll need the help of our dog bite injury lawyers in Florida to fight for your right to compensation.
Is Comparative Liability Applicable in Dog Bite Cases?
Florida does recognize that the victim in an accident may have played a role in getting hurt. Let’s say teens tease a dog until the dog attacks them. The teasing gives them a percentage of the responsibility.
Florida will reduce the amount of compensation the victim can receive by their percentage of fault. The state uses a pure comparative fault rule, so as long as the victim is less than 100% at fault they can claim compensation under the law.
Get Further Guidance From a Florida Dog Bite Lawyer
Florida’s dog bite law makes deciding who is at fault and when for a dog bite far clearer. Our Florida dog bite injury lawyers can help you gather evidence of the attack and file a strong claim against the owner’s insurance. Strict liability makes this much easier than other personal injury cases.
If your attack does happen to fall into one of the edge cases of the statute, we can give you specific guidance once we know the details. Contact Andrew Pickett Law by phone or through our contact form to schedule a free consultation if you need help after a dog bite attack.
520+ Satisfied Clients
Total reviews: 520 | Average rating: 5
Danielle Theodorides
Courtney LaChapelle
I had an auto accident back in September, and went to Andrew Pickette Law to get a case going for my medical expenses I was having to deal with. I was working closely with Vonda and Tiffany Whitehouse through the last several months. We’ve finally come to the conclusion of my case and I am so thrilled with the outcome. These ladies have been here for every question and concern that I’ve had during this process. This is an exceptional law office and would recommend anyone seek out their services. You’re getting someone that is from our area, knows Florida laws, and truly gets to know their clients.
Luke Dow
Andrew has established his firm as a pillar of excellence in personal injury space. He and his team have a track record of successful outcomes, they’ve earned their reputation as one of the most reliable legal practices in the area. Highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law.
Sneha Das
I had a great consultation with Ashley, she was very compassionate and walked me through the entire signing process. She explained everything clearly and was very patient and understanding, as it was my first time going through anything like this. She made me feel reassured and that I am great hands with Andrew Pickett Law!
Ella-Louise Steensma
Andrew Pickett Law firm has been so helpful already, Ashley S has been so kind and helpful answering all my questions! She is understanding of what you need and helps you get it!
Tony Burns
Known Andrew for years and if you’re looking for a great attorney, he’s your guy!
Amy Crotty
Ashley was super helpful and walked me through the steps I needed to get my case started. She was very informative and made me feel very comfortable.
Brandi LEMA
Vonda has been really great she’s so sweet she stays on top of things and keeps you notified of everything!! Andrew Pickett is the BEST LAW FIRM I’ve ever dealt with hands down!!!
Feliciano Lopez
Andrew Pickett law was very helpful and made the process very easy and smoothly I really appreciate the help they gave us and how they sincerely cared and that in itself means a lot I highly recommend them
Helen Keiller
I was sent a short notice to Andrew Law firm . Hailey – Intake Called me back with so much patience and concern for what happened to me . Feels so much warmer and care . They gives me more information about what I need to do for help. Very appreciate even they are not able to help me. Thanks again for her time and compassionate . Thanks Hailey – Intake
Rockeisha J
Ms.Ashley And Ms.Hailey Was A Huge Help With Myself In My Daughter , They Was Very Patient When We Ranned Cross A Few Hiccups , They Were Very Respectful And Dedicated Too Helping Us As Much As They Could Not Only Helping In Having Patience But A Listening Ear With Plenty Support In A Time Of Need They Where Great And Very Upfoward
Erin Hussey
So far, Pickett law, and Ashley in particular have been amazing. They work so quick and are very responsive. I was in an accident Friday and called Friday evening after business hours and they contacted me first thing Monday morning to let me know they were working on my case. I feel safe having this firm in my corner.
Margarita Eberline
Andrew Pickett is an exceptional attorney and an even more incredible advocate for his clients! I had the pleasure of hosting him on The Care Sandwich Podcast, where he shared his journey and passion for helping those who’ve been wronged.
Andrew’s compassion and expertise truly set him apart, he’s not just a lawyer, he’s someone who genuinely cares about making a difference. If you’re in need of a personal injury attorney who will fight for you every step of the way, Andrew is the one to call. Highly recommend!
Sue Padgett
I have had nothing but a pleasant experience with Ashley as my first time dealing with an attorney and their staff. She helped make sense out of a lot of unknowns and questions I had. She is a joy to speak to and quick to respond to you, either after a phone call or text. I hope my whole experience with this group will be as comfortable as it was speaking with Ashley. I’m sure it will be.
Primo Garcia
For almost 2 yrs Mr. Pickett and his team worked endlessly on my case. They showed tremendous dedication and drive. Lindsey was always staying in contact and always reassuring me that they got this so don’t worry. Today I get a call stating we WON, all I can say is thank God that Andrew and Lindsey took my case because without them I don’t know what would have happened. God bless them both I love you guys.
Rose Harper
Pickett Law has exceptional trial attorneys and compassionate team members. I highly recommend Pickett Law for any accident and injury accident cases in Florida.
Megan Thomas
Excellent trial law firm. Andrew is a wealth of knowledge and works hard for his clients.
Jenn Gc
Outstanding law firm and great trial lawyer! Andrew and his team are some of the best in the business.
ranojoy guha
I had a chance to work with Andrew, he’s an incredible trial attorney and a wonderful human being.
kristie escalera
I love his dedication to the community.
Meet Andrew Pickett
When you sustain injuries in an accident due to the negligence of someone else, I am here to be your personal advocate and to navigate the murky policies of insurance companies designed to confuse and prevent you from receiving just compensation. My Florida personal injury law firm works together to investigate your case, prepare it for trial, and ensure that justice is served due to your accident and injuries.
When you sustain injuries in an auto accident caused by someone else’s negligence, we are here to be your advocates and guide you through the often-confusing insurance policies designed to delay or limit fair compensation. Our team works together to thoroughly investigate your case, prepare it for trial when necessary, and fight to ensure justice is served for your accident and injuries. You are more than just a number; you’re someone whose story matters. We are here to help. Our team will guide you through the civil litigation process and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve so you can move forward.
Injured in Florida? We're Ready to Help.
Andrew Pickett Law has helped thousands of accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Tell us what happened – we'll take it from there.
Start My Free Case ReviewNo upfront costs. No fees unless we win your case.
Hailey went above and beyond during my intake call. Friendly, compastionate and on top of eveything.