Sometimes man’s best friend … is not man’s best friend. Dogs have been known to hurt bicycle riders, the elderly, and children by simply knocking them over. Or, by biting them.
It may come as a surprise, but dogs cause more than a billion dollars in injuries a year, often because of their owner’s negligence. In Florida, owners are held accountable if their dog hurts someone. Victims have to make a claim against the owner, even if the owner had no reason to suspect their dog would be aggressive. However, if the dog is known to be aggressive, and the owner doesn’t take steps to protect others, the owner can be charged with dereliction of duty.
There’s also something called the “bad dog” sign. This sign can help protect a homeowner whose dog might be inclined to be slightly less friendly.
If you are bitten or hurt by a dog, usually the owner’s homeowner policy will cover the damages.
If you are bitten by a dog, it is important to get the owner’s contact information, pictures of your wounds and the dog, the dog’s vaccinations records, when the incident happens, where it happened, and the names and numbers of any witnesses. And, of course, seek medical attention immediately.
Contact us to be connected with the best lawyer to handle a dog bite case.