Is Florida a strict liability dog-bite state?
Statute imposes liability on dog owners for bites in many circumstances, subject to defenses such as trespass or comparative negligence. Your attorney applies the facts to the controlling statute.
Dog Bites
Dog bite and animal attack claims—homeowners and renters coverage, statutory liability analysis, and scar and infection damages for adults and children.
How We Help With Dog Bites
At Aaron R. Coven Law Firm, we understand the challenges you face after a dog bites. Our team is dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Dog bite and animal attack claims—homeowners and renters coverage, statutory liability analysis, and scar and infection damages for adults and children.
Quick Florida Answer
Dog bite victims in Florida often pursue claims under statutory and common-law theories when a bite occurs on public property or while lawfully on private property. Owner liability may be strict in many scenarios, with comparative fault reducing recovery if the victim’s conduct contributed.
Reviewed by Aaron R. Coven , Florida Bar No. 38988. Updated August 21, 2026.
Palm Beach County & Florida context
Residential neighborhoods from Wellington to Lake Worth and dense Orlando subdivisions see leash-law disputes and pack-animal incidents at parks. Homeowners’ and renters’ policies frequently provide coverage, but breed exclusions and policy limits require early policy review.
Typical claim timeline (general overview)
Every case differs; this is a simplified roadmap many Florida injury matters follow.
- 1
Medical care
Address infection risk, nerve damage, and scarring protocols; photograph wounds through healing stages.
- 2
Animal control & documentation
File bite reports, obtain vaccination records, and identify keepers, landlords, or handlers with control of the dog.
- 3
Coverage analysis
Review homeowner, renter, umbrella, and commercial policies; some exclude certain breeds or animals.
- 4
Resolution
Demand packages often include plastic surgery consults for minors; structured settlements may fund future scar revision.
What often affects case value in Florida
- Severity of laceration, infection, or permanent disfigurement
- Proof the victim was lawfully present and did not provoke the animal
- Known dangerous propensity or prior bites documented in animal control files
- Available liability limits and absence of breed exclusions
- Comparative fault arguments minimized with witness statements
What should I do after a Florida crash?
Today
- Identify the dog’s owner or custodian if known.
- Keep clothing torn during the attack unwashed as evidence.
This week
- Follow antibiotic regimens exactly and photograph healing.
- Request animal control incident numbers and officer notes.
This month
- Consult plastic surgery if scarring is likely, especially for children.
- Avoid posting playful photos with unfamiliar dogs that insurers may misuse.
Benefits of Choosing Us
- Animal control documentation and vaccination tracing
- Policy review for breed or animal exclusions
- No fee unless we recover compensation
Common Questions
What if the dog never bit anyone before?
Statutory liability may still apply; negligence theories can also exist when owners fail to leash or confine animals they know are aggressive.
Can I sue a landlord?
Sometimes, when the landlord knew of a dangerous dog and had control over the premises or failed to enforce lease pet rules.
Will the dog be put down?
Animal control may quarantine or classify dangerous dogs under local ordinances; civil claims are separate from those proceedings.
Does renters insurance cover bites?
Many renters policies include liability for dog incidents, but exclusions vary; the dec page must be reviewed.
Related Florida Resources
Client Testimonials
Read what our clients have to say about their experience with our firm.
No soy de dar muchas opiniones en google pero esta oficina se lo Merece es mi tercera vez con ellos y siempre maravilloso servicio,sobre todo las muchachas q son las mediadoras en especial Lily para...
M
Misael Mellado
Verified Client
I was injured in an accident and called Coven law. I have had a great experience with the team. Eddie is very professional and truly helps fight for his clients behalf. And you can tell when speaking...
N
Nicholas Kirchman
Verified Client
A few months ago I was in an accident and they worked with me to make sure all my bills were payed and I got the money i deserved! Would 100% recommend
A
AJ Smythe
Verified Client
The law Office of Aaron Coven is a top notch personal injury attorney with an excellent reputation in the community, Lily has done an excellent job and helped me through out the whole process.
B
Barbara
Verified Client
I am very pleased with the entire staff at this law firm! They really treat you like family & are very understanding. Everyone treats me so nice from beginning to end, if there was something I did not...
D
Danna Tabares
Verified Client
Lily was wonderful, understanding, and very professional. Also her front desk staff member Stephanie was friendly and helpful.
J
Jessica Tramble
Verified Client
Ready to Discuss Your Case?
Don't navigate the legal system alone. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.