Jacksonville dog bite answers: In Florida dog owners are strictly liable to the victim for dog bite injuries, regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness . In addition, dog owners are strictly liable for any damage or injuries caused by the actions of their dogs - bites are not required. This type of law is known as “strict liability”, or liability without fault.
In most Jacksonville dog bite cases, the animal’s owner will be required to pay of the damages caused by the dog attack. Sometimes, however, the dog’s “keeper,” or the person who was taking care of the animal at the time of the attack, may also be held liable. Also in limited circumstances, a landlord may be held liable for the damages caused by his tenants’ dog.
If a dog causes injury, the owner (or in some cases, the keeper or landlord) may be liable for the following damages:
all past and future medical expenses
all past lost wages and any future loss of earning capacity
all past and future pain and mental suffering
damages for all scarring
property damage
The medical expenses associated with a dog bite can be extremely costly, especially in the event of a scarring injury. Scars can be a serious, life-long result of a dog bite. Children, because of their size, are particularly susceptible to bites around the head and face. Scarring injuries not only cause physical problems, but can also cause long term emotional trauma, requiring a significant amount of psychological counseling. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a Jacksonville dog bite be sure to call an experienced Jacksonville dog bite lawyer.