In Florida, the time limit for filing a dog bite lawsuit has recently changed. As of March 2023, the statute of limitations for dog bite cases in Florida is now two years from the date of the incident.
Key Points
- Current statute of limitations: 2 years
- Date of change: March 2023
- Previous time limit: 4 years
Importance of the Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is crucial because:
- It sets a strict deadline for filing a lawsuit in state court
- Failing to file within this period will likely result in the court dismissing the case
- It ensures timely filing of lawsuits while evidence is still fresh
Exceptions and Considerations
While the general rule is two years, there are some important considerations:
- The “discovery rule” may apply in some cases, potentially extending the deadline
- For minors, the statute of limitations may be extended for up to seven years from the date of injury in special limited circumstances
Recent Changes
The reduction in the statute of limitations from four years to two years was part of Florida’s Tort Reform enacted in March 2023. This change applies to negligence claims, including dog bite cases.
Recommendations
Given the shortened time frame, it’s advisable for dog bite victims to:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the incident to local authorities
- Consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible
- Begin gathering evidence promptly
Remember, while you have two years to file, building a strong case takes time. It’s best to start the process as early as possible to ensure all deadlines are met and your rights are protected.
Sources
- https://brookslawgroup.com/practice-areas/dog-bite-lawyer/
- https://www.injuredinflorida.com/faq/statute-of-limitations-dog-bite-injury-claims-florida/
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/florida-dog-bite-laws.html
- https://bernsteininjurylaw.com/areas-of-practice/tampa-dog-bite-lawyer/can-i-sue-for-a-dog-bite/
- https://www.andrewpickettlaw.com/blog/florida-dog-bite-laws/
