Can I Sue a Dog Owner after a Bite, Attack?

You may want to blame a dog for acting on instinct or doing something in their nature, but you may want to hold their owner accountable for the things they could have controlled. Without need for further introduction, please follow along to find out whether you can sue a dog owner after being made the victim of a serious bite or attack, and how one of the proficient Panama City personal injury attorneys at Manuel & Thompson, PA, can help you build your legal argument against them.

Can I sue a dog owner after a bite or attack incident?

Simply put, Florida follows a strict liability rule for dog bites and dog attacks. This rule holds that a dog owner is responsible for paying the damages caused by their dog, so long as the victim was present in a public space or lawfully on their private property. Further, this applies regardless of whether their dog has a documented record of viciousness or aggression.

With that being said, a dog owner’s liability may be reduced based on the victim’s negligence in the incident. This is thanks to Florida’s modified comparative negligence system. And so, this may apply if you behaved or acted in a way that provoked the dog to bite or attack. This may be if you approach the dog while they eat their food or care for their litter, for example.

What if a pet sitter or dog walker was present at the time?

Specifically, in your dog bite or attack, the owner may not have been present at the scene. Rather, at the time, the dog may have been watched over by a trusted and employed pet sitter or dog walker. Well, if so, you should know that you may still be eligible to file a dog bite injury claim, and direct it towards both the owner and sitter or walker.

This is because in Florida’s strict liability rule, ownership is a broad term that describes any party who is in control or custody of the dog at the time of the incident. Therefore, a dog sitter may have been negligent if they failed to secure the premises, and the dog escaped and bit or attacked you. Or, a dog walker failed to handle the dog’s leash while you walked passed.

Of note, after exchanging personal information with a pet sitter or dog walker, you may learn they are part of a larger service company (i.e., Rover). In this case, you may find grounds to sue the company for their contribution to negligence, as well. This possible liability is something you should discuss with your hired legal representative.

We understand just how overwhelming all of this can be for you. So, if you have any remaining questions, please consult with one of the talented Panama City personal injury attorneys. The team at Manuel & Thompson, PA, is willing and able to provide you with legal assistance in any capacity.