What Happens If My Dog Bites Someone in Miami, FL?
Dog ownership comes with many joys—and serious responsibilities. In Miami, Florida, if your dog bites someone, you could be held legally liable for the injuries, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. Florida has strict liability laws when it comes to dog bites, meaning you may be financially responsible, regardless of your dog’s history.
At Podemos Ayudar, our experienced Miami personal injury attorneys help both dog bite victims and pet owners understand their rights and responsibilities.
Florida Dog Bite Laws: Strict Liability
Under Florida Statute § 767.04, a dog owner is strictly liable if their dog bites someone:
- In a public place, or
- While the victim is lawfully on private property, including your home.
This means that you can be held liable even if you didn’t know your dog was capable of biting or acting aggressively.
You don’t need to prove negligence—just ownership and that the bite occurred.
Are There Any Defenses?
Yes, dog owners may have legal defenses in certain situations:
🔹 Trespassing – If the person bitten was illegally on your property, you may not be liable.
🔹 Provocation – If the victim was taunting, abusing, or provoking the dog, that can reduce or eliminate your responsibility.
🔹 Warning Signs – If you had a visible sign saying “Bad Dog” or similar, Florida law may protect you under specific conditions.
Still, these defenses can be complicated to prove. It’s crucial to speak with a Miami dog bite defense attorney if your pet injures someone.
What Should I Do If My Dog Bites Someone in Miami?
If your dog bites someone:
- Stay calm and separate the dog from the victim.
- Provide medical attention to the injured person if needed.
- Exchange information with the victim (name, address, vet records).
- Report the bite to Miami-Dade Animal Services.
- Contact an attorney to protect your legal rights.
Dog bite injuries can result in serious legal consequences—financial damages, lawsuits, or even mandatory euthanasia in extreme cases. You should never navigate this alone.
What Are the Legal Consequences for Dog Owners?
If found liable, you could face:
- Medical expense compensation
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering damages
- Property damage (if applicable)
- Court orders for dog training or control measures
In some cases, especially if your dog has bitten someone before, the court may declare your dog dangerous, which comes with stricter regulations—or even order the dog to be put down.
How a Miami Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
Whether you’re the dog owner or the victim of a dog bite, the legal process can be confusing. At Podemos Ayudar, we:
Investigate the circumstances of the bite
Evaluate liability and insurance coverage
Handle all communication and negotiations
Represent you in court if needed
We understand the emotional stress both sides face, and our goal is to reach the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact a Miami Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If your dog has bitten someone—or you’ve been bitten by a dog—you need legal guidance fast. Podemos Ayudar is here to help.
Call us now or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We offer bilingual service (English & Spanish) and only charge fees if we win your case.
