Dogs are, by far, the animals responsible for the most attacks against humans. Sadly, the victims of dog bites are commonly children. Children make up half of the estimated 4.5 million dog bites each year.
If you or your child has suffered from a dog attack, you should speak to our Connecticut dog bite lawyers with experience handling these cases regarding your legal rights.
Call today for free consultation (877)-987-9LAW
Dog bite cases are complex. An investigation must be performed to determine if the dog was a known threat to the public, if it has bitten anyone in the past or if the dog’s owner was negligent. Even if a dog has not exhibited violent tendencies in the past, the owner of the dog may still be held liable as long as the victim was not trespassing or committing some other crime.
Connecticut Dog Bite Laws
In Connecticut, a dog’s owner is responsible for any damage caused by the dog to a person’s body or property. When a dog attack occurs, it is important to hold the dog owner accountable. Your rights should be protected.
The law is not limited to dog bites. However, under certain circumstances, a negligence claim can be brought against the owner of all kinds of animals if they attack a person. This includes everything from household cats to farm animals.
Recovering Compensation
The long-term injuries that can result from an animal bite might mean ongoing pain and a decrease in the quality of life. A person severely bitten by a dog may require physical therapy to rehabilitate them – not to mention the expenses of this care. Some people may even need counseling due to the trauma of the attack.
As part of our investigation of a dog bite claim, we call upon medical experts to determine the severity of injuries and their impact on a person’s life. Compensation awarded as part of a claim can pay for medical costs for ongoing care.
Protect Your Legal Rights
If you or your child has been injured by a bite from a dog or other domestic animal, contact an experienced Connecticut dog bite attorney to help fight for your rights. You may be entitled to compensation. A claim does not undo the damage that has been done, but a monetary reward can help with your family’s future financial security after suffering such a terrible ordeal.
Call us today at 860.346.2695 for a free case evaluation to explore your legal options. There is no obligation.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma After a Dog Bite
Dog attacks often leave lasting emotional and psychological damage alongside physical injuries. Victims, especially children, can experience overwhelming fear, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after an attack. These effects can disrupt daily life, making it difficult to feel safe around animals, go outside, or sleep without fear.
Common psychological effects after a dog bite include:
- Fear and Anxiety: Victims may develop a strong fear of dogs or animals, making it harder to engage in normal activities, such as going for walks or visiting places where dogs are present.
- Nightmares and Flashbacks: Many individuals, particularly children, may relive the attack through recurring nightmares or sudden, vivid memories of the event.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Some attacks trigger PTSD, causing intense anxiety, emotional detachment, and avoidance of situations that remind the victim of the incident.
- Social Withdrawal: Victims may isolate themselves from friends and family or refuse to leave home out of fear of encountering animals.
- Depression: The trauma from the attack may lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a general lack of motivation to engage in activities they once enjoyed.
Recognizing the emotional toll of a dog attack is important in seeking fair compensation. Psychological trauma often requires therapy or counseling, and addressing this aspect of recovery is key to helping victims move forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Bite Cases in Connecticut
What should I do immediately after a dog bite?
Seek medical attention first, even if the injury seems minor. Afterward, document the incident by taking photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible. Collect contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses, and report the attack to local authorities or animal control. Contact an attorney to discuss your legal options as soon as possible.
Who is responsible for a dog bite in Connecticut?
The dog’s owner is typically responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior. Exceptions apply if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog at the time of the attack.
What kind of compensation can I receive for a dog bite injury?
You may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. In severe cases, compensation can also cover long-term impacts such as therapy, rehabilitation, or a diminished quality of life.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Connecticut?
You have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. It’s important to act promptly to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Connecticut law holds the owner liable even if the dog has no history of aggression, as long as the victim wasn’t trespassing or provoking the animal at the time of the attack.
Can I file a claim if the bite happened on the owner’s property?
Yes, as long as you had a legal right to be on the property. This includes guests, delivery personnel, or anyone conducting business at the location.
Does insurance cover dog bite injuries?
Many homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies include coverage for dog bite claims. Your attorney can help determine whether the dog owner’s insurance applies and assist in negotiating a settlement.
What if the dog didn’t bite me but caused another injury?
Even without a bite, the owner can still be liable if the dog caused harm. For example, if a dog knocked you down or caused a fall, you may have grounds for a claim based on the specific circumstances.
If you have additional questions, consulting with a Connecticut dog bite attorney can help clarify your legal options.
Connecticut Office
190 Washington Street
Middletown, CT 06457
P: (860) 346-2695
