Is There a Dangerous Animal Registry in Florida?

Dog attacks are traumatic experiences, and it is common for dog bites to result in both physical harm and emotional scars. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Clearwater, Hudson, or Tampa, it’s natural to wonder if the dog had a history of dangerous behavior and if that aggressive behavior was recognized by others.

Documentation of Dangerous Dogs

Florida does not have a public, statewide dangerous dog registry, but the state does have laws in place to protect people from aggressive animals. Under Florida section 767.12, local animal control authorities are responsible for investigating dog bite incidents and determining if a dog should be classified as dangerous.

A dog could be deemed a risky animal if it has aggressively bitten, attacked, or caused serious injury to a person or another animal. Once a dog has been classified as dangerous, its owner must adhere to specific regulations. This often includes securely confining the dog and posting warning signs on their property.

If the dog that bit you has a documented history of poor behavior, this can be powerful evidence in your claim for compensation. While dog owners can be held liable for injuries whether the dog had previously shown aggression or not, when a dog has been previously classified as dangerous it strengthens your case by proving that the owner was aware of the dog’s violent tendencies and failed to protect others from harm.

Proving Negligence and Animal Behaviors

Coping with the physical injury of a bite wound while trying to navigate the legal system can be exhausting, but it’s important to recognize that compensation could be in reach. When animals have a history of aggressive behavior, it could lead to punitive damages, which are awarded to punish the owner for recklessness or gross negligence.

A personal injury lawyer can guide you through the recovery process in several ways.

• Investigating the dog’s history. Your attorney can work with local animal control to gather records of the dog’s behavior and any prior incidents of aggression.
• Proving negligence. A lawyer can build a strong case by demonstrating the owner’s negligence in controlling the dog and securing compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
• Handling insurance companies. Many dog bite cases involve negotiations with insurance companies, and an attorney can ensure you are not pressured into settling for less than what you deserve.

Working with a Florida personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. With the right legal support, you can pursue the compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Do you want help seeking monetary relief after being bitten by a dangerous dog? After an injury, it is important to take immediate action, both to protect your health and to be sure you have the documentation necessary for any future claims. You don’t have to pave the path to recovery on your own. Instead, lean on the expertise of the attorneys at Roman & Roman. To access over 100 years of combined experience, schedule a confidential consultation today.

Although the law firm of Roman & Roman has offices in Clearwater, Hudson and Tampa, we handle cases and claims throughout  Florida. We also meet personally with our clients if at all possible, rather than impersonally over the phone or on the Internet.