Recent national data from insurance carriers show that dog bite-related injury claims are increasing both in frequency and cost. In 2023 alone, insurers paid out over $1.3 billion in dog bite liability claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute—a sharp rise from previous years, driven in part by higher verdicts and medical costs.
While Florida does not lead the nation in total claims, our state ranks among the top for dog bite liability exposure, especially in urban and suburban areas.
📌 Florida’s Dog Bite Law: What It Says
Florida law (Fla. Stat. § 767.04) imposes strict liability on dog owners:
“The owner of any dog that bites any person while such person is in a public place or lawfully in a private place… is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten.”
In plain terms, a dog owner can be held liable even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
However, there are important exceptions:
- If the victim provoked the dog
- If the owner had a “Bad Dog” warning sign clearly posted and the victim was over 6 years old
- If the victim was trespassing
💡 Trends to Watch in Florida
- Higher jury awards: More juries are awarding significant damages for emotional trauma, scarring, and loss of enjoyment of life—particularly in cases involving children.
- Multiple-defendant cases: We’re seeing more lawsuits filed not only against the dog owner but also against property owners, landlords, HOAs, or commercial entities.
- Breed bans & insurance exclusions: Some homeowner’s policies are excluding certain breeds or denying coverage if specific precautions aren’t taken.
🛑 Common Mistakes That Lead to Liability
- Letting a dog roam freely or off-leash in unfenced areas
- Failing to warn guests or service providers of a dog’s presence
- Allowing tenants or family members to harbor aggressive dogs on your property
🛠️ How Our Firm Can Help
At Kampf, Inman & Associates, P.A., we have extensive experience defending individuals, property owners, and insurers in dog bite and premises liability cases. Our litigation team knows how to:
- Evaluate potential defenses, including trespass or provocation
- Navigate insurance coverage disputes and exclusions
- Reduce exposure in high-value injury claims
- Advise landlords and businesses on legal responsibilities
Whether you’re facing a new claim, preparing for litigation, or seeking to protect your property from future exposure, we’re ready to provide knowledgeable and strategic counsel.
👣 Proactive Tips for Homeowners:
- Post clear “Beware of Dog” or “Dog on Premises” signs—especially near entrances.
- Keep dogs restrained when visitors or workers are present.
- Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to confirm dog-related coverage.
- If a bite occurs, document everything and contact legal counsel immediately.
📞 Have questions about a dog-related injury claim?
Call us at (813) 241-0123 to schedule a consultation.