If a pet injures someone, the pet’s owners are generally considered legally responsible for whatever damage was caused, and the case falls under the category of premises liability. However, there are various circumstances in which dog bites would not be considered the responsibility of the owner. If you were bitten by a dog and you find yourself wondering whether the owner might be liable for covering any medical costs incurred, a knowledgeable Broward County, IL premises liability attorney can review your case and offer you guidance.
When it comes to dog bites, every state differs in how they handle this matter, but there are two common approaches. There are “one bite” states, in which the owner is held responsible if they already knew or should have known about their dog’s aggressive tendencies based on previous experiences. There are also “strict liability” states, like the state of Florida, in which dog owner liability is upheld regardless of the pet’s previous history and even if they never bit anyone before.
However, there are certain exceptions where the pet owner is likely not going to be liable for damages or other compensation, including:
A personal injury lawyer with an understanding of premises liability can look into the specifics of what happened to you and let you know whether you might have a case.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, an experienced Fort Lauderdale, FL premises liability attorney can advise you on what to do next. At The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A., we can offer our legal guidance in English, Spanish, and Creole. Call 954-763-4950 to schedule a free consultation.