Florida Statutes section 767.04 generally makes a dog owner liable when the dog bites a person in a public place or while the person is lawfully on private property, regardless of whether the dog had previously bitten anyone or whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous. The victim's own negligence can reduce the owner's liability, a prominently displayed 'Bad Dog' sign may create a limited defense, and landlords, property managers, businesses, or animal-care providers may be liable for their own negligence.
Key Takeaways
- Florida generally holds dog owners responsible for bites even without a prior attack.
- The victim usually does not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
- A victim's own negligence can reduce the owner's liability.
- A prominently displayed 'Bad Dog' sign may create a limited defense in some circumstances.
- Children under age six receive special treatment under the warning-sign provision.
- Parties other than the dog owner may sometimes be liable for their own negligence.
This article provides general information and is not legal or medical advice. Seek qualified medical care and public-health guidance after a bite. Legal rights and deadlines depend on the specific incident, injuries, evidence, and applicable Florida law. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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