Did you know there are over 4.5 million dog bites a year requiring more than 370,000 emergency room visits annually in the United States? Did you know that the average person’s chance of being bitten by a dog is 5.7% and that 41 dog attacks were fatal in 2016?
These statistics, along with the potential liability for dog owners, are concerning, especially with certain dog breeds. While these statistics are certainly worrisome to dog owners, they should be even more worrisome for those of us who share the bike paths, dog parks, and sidewalks with these pets.
Please read on to learn more about what to do if you’ve been bitten by a dog in Connecticut.
What is the law on dog bites in Connecticut?
Unlike many states, Connecticut imposes strict liability on its dog owners. This means that the owner of a dog does not need to be aware of a dogs past aggressive behavior, nor does the dog need to have a history of biting, in order to hold the owner responsible for an attack. There are, however, exceptions to this rule. If the victim of an attack was trespassing, teasing or tormenting the dog the owner may not be liable for the attack.
What compensation am I entitled to?
The value of you case and the type of compensation you are entitled to depends on the nature and extent of your injuries. Generally, you are entitled to be compensated for your past and future medical expenses, lost wages and lost earning capacity, past and future pain and suffering as well as compensation for any scarring or disfigurement.
What Should I do if I am injured by a dog?
If you have been injured by a dog it is imperative that you identify the dog’s owner or the person responsible for the dog. Dog injuries are not just limited to bites but include other things such as scratches and being knocked over by a dog. If you are unable to locate the owner please contact your local animal control officer to assist you. They will come to the scene and work to identify the owner or capture the dog if it is roaming. This will be important evidence to help you seek compensation for your injuries.
What should I do next?
Next, it is important to seek medical attention for your injuries, even if the injury seems minor. Dog attacks can cause nerve damage and puncture wounds and easily become infected. Bites also frequently result in scarring and disfigurement. Once you have been treated, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible. We will work with your doctor to determine the extent of your injuries and the financial losses you have suffered. Please be aware that there are deadlines that must be met to successfully prosecute your claim.
If you or a loved or has been injured by a dog please seek help from Kahan Kerensky and Capossela as soon as possible. We have extensive experience in documenting your injuries and prosecuting these claims. Please contact us now to schedule a free consultation to discuss you case.
Attorney Matthew E. Willis is a partner practicing in the areas of personal injury and criminal defense. He assists clients injured in all types of accidents and dog bites. He also represents clients charged with all types of motor vehicle offenses, including operating under the influence, throughout the State of Connecticut. Call Attorney Willis at (860) 812-1743 or email him at mwillis@kkc-law.com. If you have been bitten by a dog, please call before it is too late!