NavNavigating a dog bite claim in Miami-Dade County can escalate quickly. Miami-Dade enforces dog bite cases aggressively, and dog owners often face insurance pressure or litigation within weeks of an incident. Understanding your rights under Florida law early can make the difference between a manageable claim and long-term personal exposure. Although based in Orlando, our firm routinely defends dog owners throughout South Florida. Our Florida Dog Bite Defense Attorneys represent Miami-Dade clients with a focused, strategic approach designed to limit liability and protect insurance coverage.

Miami-Dade Dog Bite Law Explained

Florida follows a strict liability framework for dog bite cases, including in Miami-Dade County. This means a dog owner may be held legally responsible even if the dog had never shown aggression before the incident.

However, strict liability does not mean automatic liability.

Florida law expressly allows defenses that can reduce or completely eliminate responsibility depending on the facts. A knowledgeable Miami-Dade dog bite defense attorney can identify and preserve those defenses before mistakes are made with insurers or opposing counsel.

Florida records more than 1,300 dog bite insurance claims per year, with an average payout exceeding $45,000 per claim.
Miami-Dade consistently ranks among the highest counties for dog bite litigation filings statewide.
Early legal involvement reduces the risk of personal, uncovered exposure.

“Strict liability does not eliminate defenses. It only shifts the importance of strategy.”

Key Defenses in Miami-Dade Dog Bite Claims

Provocation

Provocation remains one of the strongest defenses available under Florida law. If the injured person teased, struck, chased, threatened, or otherwise antagonized the dog, liability may be reduced or barred entirely.

Provocation does not need to be extreme. Sudden movements, cornering a dog, interfering with food or puppies, or physical contact can all qualify depending on the circumstances. Our attorneys investigate witness statements, surveillance footage, animal control reports, and medical timelines to determine whether provocation applies.

Studies show that more than 40% of dog bite incidents involve some form of human interaction immediately before the incident.
Provocation defenses are fact-specific and must be preserved early.

“Not every dog bite is legally compensable, even under strict liability.”

“Bad Dog” Sign Defense

Florida law also recognizes a statutory defense when a dog owner posts a clearly visible “Bad Dog” sign on the property. If the injured person was on the property and the warning sign was conspicuously displayed, the owner may be shielded from liability under certain conditions.

This defense is limited and does not apply in all situations, particularly when minors are involved. Factors such as sign placement, visibility, property access, and the injured party’s legal status matter. Our Florida dog bite defense lawyers analyze these details to determine whether this defense can meaningfully reduce exposure.

Proper signage can shift liability analysis entirely in the owner’s favor.

How We Defend Miami-Dade Dog Owners

Dog bite claims often involve immediate insurance scrutiny and aggressive settlement demands. Our role is to control the narrative early and prevent avoidable mistakes.

Strategic Guidance
We advise you on what to do after receiving a demand letter, lawsuit, or insurer inquiry, including how to avoid damaging recorded statements.

Defense Planning
We develop a defense strategy focused on dismissal, liability reduction, or favorable resolution based on statutory defenses and evidence.

Litigation-Ready Representation
If suit is filed, we defend you through discovery, motion practice, depositions, and trial.

Insurance Coordination
We work directly with homeowners and renters insurance carriers to protect coverage and avoid denials based on late notice or misstatements.

Client-Focused Communication
Dog owners deserve clarity, not fear-based pressure. We keep you informed and involved at every stage.

“Most dog bite cases are won or lost before the first deposition.”

Florida Civil Counsel, P.A. – Miami-Dade Dog Bite Defense Attorneys

Florida Civil Counsel, P.A. represents dog owners throughout Miami-Dade County and across Florida. If you are facing a dog bite claim, early legal involvement is critical. Visit our contact page to speak with an experienced dog bite defense attorney.

For additional insight on dog bite liability, defenses, and evolving Florida law, explore our firm’s updates in the latest news section.