Dog Bite Lawyer
Bitten by a dog? Under Florida’s strict-liability law, the owner is responsible. We pursue full compensation for the injuries, scarring, and trauma. Free consultation.
Free consultation. No obligation.
Florida dog bite law
Florida’s dog bite statute imposes strict liability on owners when their dog bites someone in a public place or a person lawfully on private property, with no prior bite history required. Liability can be reduced if the victim was negligent, and a “Bad Dog” sign may affect adult claims in limited situations, but children receive broader protection. RAM Law & Title, PLLC applies these rules to hold owners and insurers accountable across Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, South Miami, and Brickell. For related negligence claims beyond animal attacks, explore our personal injury overview.
Injuries and complications after a bite
Dog bites can cause puncture wounds, tendon or nerve damage, infections, and lasting scars; many victims also experience anxiety or PTSD, especially children. We coordinate medical documentation, from ER visits and antibiotics to plastic surgery consults, so your claim reflects both physical harm and emotional impact over time.
Pursuing compensation
Our team identifies the owner, confirms homeowners’ or renters’ insurance, obtains animal control records, and gathers photos, witness statements, and prior incident evidence. We pursue damages for medical bills, scar revision, lost income, pain and suffering, and counseling. If the attack happened at a business or shared space, we assess premises responsibility similar to our work in slip and fall matters.
Dealing with common defenses
Owners often claim provocation or trespassing. We counter with the facts, from location access and leash rules to signage and witness accounts, and apply Florida law to keep the focus on the owner’s responsibility. When an insurer minimizes scarring or trauma, we support your case with medical opinions and long-term prognosis.
Protecting child victims
Children face higher medical and emotional risks after a bite. We prioritize timely treatment, document developmental impacts, and pursue compensation that accounts for future care and potential scar revision. Families receive clear guidance on next steps and expected timelines in Miami-Dade.
Common questions
Are dog owners strictly liable for bites in Florida?
Yes. Florida imposes strict liability when a dog bites someone in public or a lawful visitor on private property, with no prior-bite history required. We document the attack and identify the insurance coverage that applies.
Does a “Beware of Dog” sign defeat my claim?
It can affect an adult’s claim in limited situations, but not usually a child’s. We look at the signage, leash laws, and how you came to be there to counter that defense.
What damages can I recover for a dog bite?
Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and scar revision or counseling where it’s needed. We build the medical and psychological evidence to support each of those.
Who pays for dog bite injuries, the owner or the landlord?
Usually the owner, often through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. In some cases a landlord or property manager shares liability too. We investigate every party and policy.
Should I report the bite to animal control?
Yes. An official report helps establish prior incidents and supports your claim. We’ll obtain those records and guide your medical documentation.
Rooted in Coral Gables.
We were born and built here. We take cases throughout Florida, with our primary focus on South Florida and the Keys. From Miracle Mile to the Biltmore, you get a local team that knows these streets, these courts, and these neighborhoods.
- Coral Gables
- Miami-Dade
- Broward
- Palm Beach
- The Florida Keys
- All of Florida
Talk to a Coral Gables attorney
Tell us what's going on. We'll listen, explain your options in plain language, and be honest about how we can help. Free consultation, no obligation.