Dog Faces Consequences After Second Biting Incident
When a dog bites the first time around, it can be bad enough. The victim may suffer serious injuries, scarring, disfigurement, and even death. But when it happens a second time — even years later — it becomes especially concerning.
A dog in Florida is in trouble after attacking for a second time in a four-year period. In 2018, the dog — a 4-year-old Pitbull named Sage — bit a 4-year-old boy who was outside of a Winn Dixie supermarket in St. James City. The owner was cited by the county, but Sage was not taken away or put down at the time, even though Florida is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. At the very least, the dog should have gone through a 10-day quarantine. It is unknown why this did not happen.
After the second attack, the consequences are much more serious, since the dog was already given one free bite. After the first attack, Sage was registered as a dangerous dog. This means that she should be kept in a fenced-in yard so she cannot escape and injure someone else. She also should have been leashed and muzzled anytime she was in public.
However, Sage attacked again on November 12. A woman was walking her dog, Max, on Sandpiper Lane on Pine Island, when Sage jumped out of an open window in her home. She then ran across the street and attacked Max. Max was tossed around like a rag doll, according to Max’s owner.
The case is still under investigation, so it is unknown what will happen to Sage. Legally, she should be put down, but it’s possible that Lee County could give her another chance. Her owner could be charged with a misdemeanor. At the very least, she should be on the hook for Max’s medical bills.
Dog Bite Laws in Florida
Florida is a strict liability state, which means that even when a dog bites someone for the first time, It is possible for a dog owner to be held accountable for a dog attack. They can face criminal charges and penalties as well as a civil lawsuit from the victim.
Because Florida is a strict liability state, victims do not have to prove that their injuries were the result of an owner’s negligence. All that needs to be proven is that the dog bit the victim and that that victim was either in a public space or on private property legally.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Dog attacks are typically taken seriously in Florida, even if it’s the first attack. The fate of the dog in this case is still up in the air.
A Bradenton dog bite lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can assist you if you or your pet has been attacked by a dog. We have a vested interest in you and want to see you recover to the fullest extent possible. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (941) 281-2019.
Source:
winknews.com/2022/11/29/consequences-for-lee-county-dog-after-second-biting-incident/
