Most dogs are loving family members. But when a dog attacks, the consequences can be severe: deep puncture wounds, nerve damage, infections, permanent scarring, and emotional trauma that can last for years. Children are especially vulnerable, and bites to the face and neck are all too common.
If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Jacksonville or anywhere in Northeast Florida, you may be entitled to compensation. At Terrell Hogan Law, we have been helping injured Floridians hold responsible parties accountable since 1974.
Florida is a strict liability state for dog bites
Many states follow a “one bite” rule, where an owner is only liable if they knew their dog was dangerous. Florida is different. Under Florida Statute 767.04, a dog owner is liable for damages suffered by a person bitten by their dog in a public place, or lawfully in a private place, including the owner’s property. It does not matter whether the dog had ever bitten anyone before, or whether the owner knew the dog could be aggressive.
In plain terms: if you were somewhere you had a right to be and a dog bit you, the owner is generally responsible.
Exceptions you should know about
Florida’s dog bite law does have limits:
- The “Bad Dog” sign exception. An owner may avoid liability if they displayed an easily readable “Bad Dog” sign in a prominent place on their property. This exception does not apply if the victim is under six years old, or if the injury was caused by the owner’s negligence.
- Comparative fault. If the victim provoked the dog or was partly responsible, the recovery may be reduced.
- Trespassing. The statute protects people who are lawfully on the property. Mail carriers, delivery drivers, guests, and service workers are generally covered.
Dog attacks that do not involve a bite, such as being knocked down by a large dog, may still support a claim based on the owner’s negligence.
Who pays for a dog bite claim?
Most dog bite claims are paid through the owner’s homeowners or renters insurance policy. In some cases, a landlord, property manager, or business may also share responsibility. An experienced dog bite attorney will identify every available insurance policy so you are not left paying for someone else’s dog. You can read more on our Jacksonville dog attack practice page.
What compensation can you recover?
- Emergency care, surgery, and plastic or reconstructive surgery
- Treatment for infections and rabies prevention
- Future medical care and scar revision
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Counseling for anxiety, fear of dogs, and post-traumatic stress, which is especially common in children
- Compensation for permanent scarring and disfigurement
What to do after a dog bite in Jacksonville
- Get medical attention immediately. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection.
- Identify the dog and its owner, and get their contact and insurance information.
- Report the bite to Jacksonville Animal Care and Protective Services or your local animal control agency.
- Photograph your injuries as they heal, as well as the location of the attack.
- Get names of any witnesses.
- Do not sign anything or give a recorded statement to the owner’s insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.
Do not wait too long
Under current Florida law, most dog bite claims must be filed within two years. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly and cheaply, before the full cost of scarring and future treatment is known. Talking to an attorney early protects your rights.
Why choose Terrell Hogan Law
- Fighting for Jacksonville families since 1974
- Over $1 billion recovered for our clients
- No fee unless we win
- Compassionate representation for children and families
If you or your child was hurt in a dog attack, contact Terrell Hogan Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
