As a Jacksonville attorney that represents victims of dog bites I am asked a lot about who is responsible when a dog bites someone. Under Florida statutes the owner of a dog that bites someone is liable for damages including medical bills, lost wages, scarring and pain and suffering regardless of whether or not the dog was labeled vicious or if it had bitten before. There is no “one bite rule” in Florida.
Comparative negligence still applies so if the victim caused the dog to bite them the liability of the dog owner will be reduced. If the attack happens on private property the victim must have been invited onto the property or lawfully there for a business purpose, this includes postmen. However the owner is not liable if they displayed a easily readable sign that states “Bad Dog”. We have been successful in cases where the owner has displayed the bad dog sign but still told the victim it was okay to come onto the property.
If you have been bitten by a dog or need more information regarding whether or not you could be liable you should contact a Florida dog bite lawyer.