Miami Dog Bite Lawyer | Florida Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bites can cause devastating injuries, both physically and emotionally, often leaving victims with permanent scars, medical expenses, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Miami, you have the right to seek compensation under Florida law. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we specialize in helping dog bite victims navigate the legal process and recover the compensation they deserve.

Contact us 24/7 at 305-638-4143 or complete our online form for a free consultation in English or Spanish. 

Understanding Florida’s Updated Dog Bite Laws

In Florida, dog bite cases are governed by Florida Statutes § 767.04, which imposes strict liability on dog owners. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or if the owner was unaware of its propensity to bite.

• Strict Liability: Dog owners are liable for injuries caused by their dog even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
• Location Matters: Liability applies if the bite occurs in a public place or lawfully on private property, including the dog owner’s property.
• Comparative Negligence: If the victim’s actions contributed to the bite (e.g., teasing or provoking the dog), their compensation may be reduced under Florida’s comparative negligence rules (Florida Statutes § 768.81).

The Pam Rock Act: New Legal Requirements for Dangerous Dogs

Effective July 1, 2025, the Pam Rock Act introduces new mandates for anyone who owns a dog that has been legally deemed dangerous. These include:

• Mandatory Liability Insurance: Owners must carry a minimum of $100,000 in liability insurance coverage to compensate victims if their dog causes injury or damage.
• Secure Enclosure Requirements: The dog must be kept in a secure, enclosed area with clearly visible warning signs posted at all entry points.
• Microchipping and Sterilization: Dangerous dogs must be microchipped for tracking and identification purposes and spayed or neutered to reduce the risk of aggression.
• Updated Vaccination Records: Owners must ensure their dog’s rabies vaccinations are current and documented.

Failure to comply with any of these conditions can lead to substantial fines and, in some cases, criminal penalties. The law is designed to ensure that victims of dog attacks are not left without recourse and that owners of aggressive dogs take proactive steps to prevent future harm.

What Is a Dangerous Dog Under Florida Law?

A dog may be classified as “dangerous” if it:

• Has aggressively bitten, attacked, or inflicted serious injury on a person;
• Has killed or seriously injured another domestic animal while off its owner’s property;
• Has, without provocation, approached someone in a menacing or aggressive manner while outside of a secure enclosure.

The classification is determined through an investigation by local animal control authorities and imposes heightened legal responsibilities on the owner.

What This Means for Dog Bite Victims in Florida

For victims of dog bites, especially attacks involving dogs previously deemed dangerous, the Pam Rock Act enhances the likelihood of financial recovery. With mandatory insurance in place, there is a better chance that victims can recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages without facing the risk of the dog owner being uninsured or judgment-proof.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we stay on the cutting edge of changes to Florida’s dog bite laws so we can better protect our clients. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, our attorneys are ready to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve under both traditional statutes and this new law.

Common Injuries From Dog Bites

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to life-altering wounds, including:

• Puncture Wounds: Deep bites can lead to infections or damage to internal tissues.
• Lacerations and Scarring: Severe bites often result in permanent disfigurement, particularly on the face or hands.
• Nerve Damage: Bites can sever nerves, causing long-term impairment.
• Infections: Dog bites can transmit bacteria like rabies, tetanus, or Pasteurella.
• Emotional Trauma: Many victims, especially children, develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after an attack.
• Wrongful Death: In extreme cases, particularly involving attacks on young children or the elderly, dog bites can result in fatal injuries, leading to wrongful death claims for the surviving family members.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite in Florida?

Under Florida law, the dog owner is typically the primary party held liable for dog bite injuries. However, other parties may also share responsibility, including:

• Landlords: If a landlord knew of a dangerous dog on their property and failed to act, they might be liable.
• Property Owners: In cases where property hazards contributed to the attack, property owners may bear some responsibility.
• Caregivers: If someone other than the owner was responsible for the dog at the time of the attack, they may share liability.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to recover damages for:

• Medical Expenses: Covers emergency care, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to recovery.
• Pain and Suffering: Addresses physical pain, emotional trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent physical changes resulting from the attack.
• Punitive Damages: In extreme cases involving gross negligence, the court may award additional damages to punish the wrongdoer.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Dog Bite in Florida

Tragically, dog bites can sometimes result in fatal injuries, particularly for young children, elderly individuals, or those who experience severe infections or blood loss. When a loved one’s death is caused by a dog attack, the surviving family may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida Statutes § 768.16–768.26, also known as Florida’s Wrongful Death Act.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Florida, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. This claim is brought on behalf of eligible surviving family members, which typically include:

• The spouse of the deceased, who may seek compensation for loss of companionship and emotional support.
• The children of the deceased, who may recover damages for lost parental guidance, emotional suffering, and financial support.
• The parents of the deceased, particularly if the victim was a minor.
• Other dependents, such as blood relatives or adoptive siblings who relied on the deceased for financial or emotional support.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact of losing a loved one to a dog attack. Our experienced dog bite attorneys are committed to helping families seek justice and hold negligent dog owners accountable. We handle every aspect of the legal process, from investigating the circumstances of the attack to negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in court if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does homeowner’s insurance cover dog bite claims?

In many cases, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability. However, some policies exclude coverage for certain breeds or dogs with a history of aggression. A dog bite attorney can identify applicable insurance coverage to help secure your compensation.

Can children sue for dog bites in Florida?

Yes, minors who are bitten by a dog can have a parent or guardian file a claim on their behalf. Florida law recognizes that children are more vulnerable to severe injuries and emotional trauma from dog attacks, which may increase the compensation awarded.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Florida?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is two years from the date of the incident. For wrongful death claims, the time limit is also two years. It’s important to act promptly to preserve evidence and strengthen your case.

 What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

First, seek medical attention to treat your injuries and prevent infection. Then, report the incident to local animal control or the police. Document the bite by taking photos of your injuries, and gather information about the dog owner, including their name, contact details, and the dog’s vaccination history. Consult a Miami dog bite lawyer as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

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Why Choose Flanagan & Bodenheimer For Your Dog Bite Injury Case

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we take pride in helping victims of negligence receive compensation through personal injury and wrongful death cases. Here’s why Miami residents trust us with their dog bite claims:

1. Exclusive Focus: We focus exclusively on personal injury  and wrongful death cases, giving us the expertise to handle even the most complex cases.
2. Small Caseloads: We intentionally limit our caseload to provide personalized attention to each client. This allows you to have direct access to your attorney when necessary. 
3. Proven Results: We have recovered millions for victims of negligence throughout South Florida. Click here to see some of our recent results. 
4. Contingency Fee Basis: You pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if we win your case.

Our main offices are conveniently located in Hollywood, FL, and Coral Gables, FL. However, our commitment to justice knows no boundaries. We proudly serve clients throughout the entire state of Florida. Whether you’re in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando, or anywhere in between, our experienced legal team is ready to provide the personalized representation and dedicated advocacy you deserve. With virtual consultations available, we make it easy to access our services no matter where you are in Florida.

Contact us today at 305-638-4143 for a free consultation. Let us provide the compassionate support and legal expertise you need to navigate this challenging time and secure the compensation your family deserves.