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A dog attack can leave deep wounds, permanent scars, and emotional trauma, especially for children. Florida is one of the most prominent states in the country for dog bite insurance claims. Florida dog bite laws support fair compensation for victims, and we pursue the dog bite compensation Florida families deserve. If a dog bit you or your child anywhere in Florida, Suli Law Group knows how to recover what your family deserves.
Under the Florida dog bite statute (Section 767.04), Florida is a strict liability state. Owners are liable for bites that occur in public places or on private property when the victim is lawfully there, regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten anyone before. There is no “one-bite rule” in Florida. The owner’s lack of knowledge of viciousness is not a defense. The law applies whether the bite happened at a park, a friend’s home, a delivery route, or a public sidewalk.
Most claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Some policies exclude certain breeds or have lower liability limits. We identify all available policies, including umbrella coverage, landlord policies (when landlords knew of a dangerous dog), and commercial policies if the bite occurred at a business.
• Puncture wounds, lacerations, and crushing injuries
• Facial injuries requiring reconstructive surgery, especially in children
• Nerve and tendon damage
• Infections, including rabies exposure, MRSA, and Capnocytophaga
• Emotional trauma, PTSD, and lasting fear of dogs
Children under six are given special consideration. Under the previously mentioned statute and Florida law principles governing “Beware of Dog” signs, a “Bad Dog” or “Beware of Dog” sign defense does not apply to bites involving young children.
At Suli Law Group, we may pursue the following after a dog bite:
Founding attorney Laura Sulisufay is a former insurance defense attorney. She built her career defending insurance companies. Now, she uses that insider knowledge against them. Our team knows exactly how adjusters value claims, where they cut corners, and what evidence forces a fair offer.
Seek medical attention immediately and document the injury with photos if possible. After receiving treatment, contact an attorney promptly so that evidence can be preserved and your rights are protected.
No. Florida is a strict liability state, so an owner is responsible for a bite even if the dog has never bitten anyone before and the owner had no reason to know it was dangerous.
Most claims are paid through the owner’s homeowners or renters insurance, and additional coverage may come from an umbrella policy, a landlord’s policy if they knew the dog was dangerous, or a commercial policy if the bite occurred at a business.
It can limit liability in some adult cases, but it does not apply when the victim is a child under six. Florida law provides special protection for young children regardless of posted warnings.
You can recover past and future medical bills, plastic surgery and scar revision, mental health treatment, lost wages (including a parent’s caregiving time), pain and suffering, disfigurement, and loss of life enjoyment.
Suli Law Group exists to protect injured people and policyholders at their most vulnerable moments — combining insider knowledge of the insurance industry, relentless preparation, and direct attorney access with the compassion, integrity, and genuine care every client deserves. We pursue justice and accountability with strategy, precision, and heart.
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