Q: What are the legal implications if my dog bites someone despite warnings in Florida?
In Florida, my dog, who has a history of aggression, bit someone in a public area. The dog was on a leash and had a "do not touch" sign on the harness. I explicitly warned the person not to touch the dog, but they ignored my warning and were bitten, requiring medical attention. No previous legal actions or complaints have been made against my dog. What legal implications could I face in this situation, and what steps should I take following this incident?
A: In the state of Florida, a dog owner is automatically liable for any damages that the dog caused to a third-party. If you own or rent property, your renters or homeowners insurance may provide a legal defense to any claim that is brought against you by the injured plaintiff. While a warning sign is a defense to a strict liability action, it is still an issue that is determined by a sitting judge or a jury if there is a dispute as to whether there was an adequate warning.
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