Connecticut has a strict liability statute. Dog owners are liable for injuries their animals cause, even if they did not know their animals were aggressive or capable of injuring someone. Exceptions include people who are trespassing or provoking the dog.
Understanding Connecticut’s dog bite laws and how strict liability works can be challenging. At Jainchill & Beckert, LLC, we provide legal advice and moral support to you and your family during this confusing and frightening time. Our Connecticut dog bite lawyers are committed to helping you understand your legal rights under strict liability and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
What Is Connecticut’s Dog Bite Law?
In Connecticut, the strict liability statute declares that dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their animals. This statute holds even when the owner had no reasonable way of knowing that their dog was a danger to others. Contact our Hartford dog bite lawyer today for help.
Is the Owner Always Liable If a Dog Bites Someone?
There are exceptions to Connecticut’s strict liability rules. Dog owners may not be responsible for compensating an injured person who trespasses on their private property and gets injured by the animal. Owners also may not be liable for dog bites when they can demonstrate the injured individual was teasing, tormenting, or otherwise abusing the dog when the bite occurred.
These exceptions typically only apply to adults and older children. Connecticut’s strict liability rules presume that injured children under seven did not trespass or provoke the dog into attacking unless the dog’s owner can prove otherwise.
How Is Liability Proven in a Connecticut Dog Bite Case?
Strict liability means dog owners are responsible for the physical damage their animal inflicts on another person. To recover the compensation you deserve, you typically must prove the identity of the dog’s owner, that the dog caused your injuries, and that your injuries have resulted in harm and financial losses. Evidence used to establish these facts can include:
- Medical records
- Photographs or video of the incident
- The dog bite report made to authorities or animal control
- Witness statements
However, the dog owner may also present evidence to defend themselves, suggesting the injured individual was trespassing or provoking the animal before the incident. To pursue the money you deserve, it is always in your best interest to turn to an experienced Connecticut dog bite lawyer for help building a solid claim.
What Should I Do After a Dog Attack?
Taking immediate action to protect yourself can significantly impact your health and the strength of a dog bite claim. Consider taking these steps after a dog attack:
- Get medical attention immediately – Dog bites can cause devastating injuries, illnesses, and infections. You must seek medical help immediately after a dog bite for your health and well-being.
- Document the dog bite incident – Document the incident as best you can, depending on your injuries. Ask for the dog owner’s name, contact information, and homeowner’s insurance information. If witnesses are on the scene, ask for their contact information. It may also be helpful if the owner can provide the dog’s vet information and vaccination history. Take photographs and videos of the scene and your injuries.
- Report the bite – In Connecticut, dog bite victims must report the incident to the state, town, or region where the dog owner keeps the dog. Healthcare providers must also report some dog bite injuries to the local health director.
- Consult a lawyer – Coping with the aftermath of a dog attack can be challenging. Get help seeking the money you deserve and talk to a Connecticut dog bite attorney as soon as possible.
- Avoid social media – Do not post about the incident or anything else on social media platforms until your attorney resolves your claim.
- Follow medical advice –For your health and safety, follow all your physician’s advice. Your medical records may also be vital evidence in a dog bite claim.
What Compensation Can I Receive from a Dog Bite Injury Lawsuit?
Compensation for dog attacks varies depending on the circumstances of the situation. Several factors, like the cause of the incident and the severity of the injuries, play a role in determining the value of a case. In general, dog bite victims can seek money to cover the following:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
A dedicated lawyer can calculate the value of your dog bite case and aggressively pursue fair compensation for you.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Injury Lawsuit in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, a dog bite victim has two years from the incident date to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for their injuries. It is vital to talk to a Connecticut dog bite attorney as soon as possible so they can manage the strict legal deadlines for you. Filing a lawsuit after the legal deadline can get your case dismissed, and you lose a powerful option for recovering the money you need. Our Hartford personal injury lawyer can assist.
Contact a Connecticut Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
Unfortunately, the consequences can be significant when a four-legged friend turns dangerous. You deserve compensation for your injuries and financial losses. However, recovering the compensation can be challenging – especially when the dog owner is a friend or family member. Remove the stress of the situation from your shoulders and pass it to a skilled Connecticut dog bite attorney instead. At Jainchill & Beckert, LLC, we want to support you and demand maximum compensation for your injuries.
Contact our Connecticut office today for a free legal consultation to learn more.
