Practice Areas

Client
Testimonials

Library

Florida Law and Dog Bite Injury

I am sure we are all saddened by the horrible story of the attack on Mia Kinsman who was seriously injured in an unprovoked attack by an 80 lb. pit bull-mastiff mix. What is striking is the familiar circumstances of a small child playing with a dog whom she was friendly with, yet results in a vicious attack. This is a common theme seen in too many dog bite cases. It is made worse by the fact that Florida has created an insurance problem by allowing homeowner carriers to exclude dog bite coverage. This results in many dog bite victims having no insurance coverage for the serious damages resulting in these attacks. Many companies specially offer no coverage for dog bite injuries on their policies. Others, if they offer coverage, will exclude certain breeds, including pit bulls. The legislature should correct this. Click here to learn more about Florida law and victims of dog bites. Obviously, I know nothing about this case aside from what has been reported in the St. Petersburg Times newspaper, which gives no indication the owners had suspicion the dog represented a danger to the child.

However, owners who have dogs with any propensity to bite, have a duty to protect the innocent victim by having coverage to pay for their injuries or they shouldn't have the dog.

Free Consultation