Many people who own dogs do so because of the benefits to their health and happiness that having a dog provides. Unfortunately, dog bites happen frequently in the United States since dogs are common in everyday life. Recovering from dog bite injuries can seem tough due to the physical and financial demands of the process.

Dog bite injuries are considered personal injury claims, thus you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. There are, however, Connecticut statutes that may help or hurt your case. Owners of dogs that attack and cause harm to another person or their property are held strictly liable under Connecticut law. If the dog causes death, the owner will be liable as well.

Injured parties in Connecticut can seek compensation for their injuries in most situations, thanks to the state's dog bite statutes, but there are exceptions.

Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, is committed to providing excellent legal representation in a caring and respectful manner. If you need a Connecticut dog bite lawyer, you can retain our services without payment or a retainer. You will only pay us if we win and our fees are covered by the compensation you receive. If we cannot win your case, you owe us nothing.

When a dog bites someone, they may feel bad about considering legal action if they know or are related to the dog's owner. Unfortunately, dog bites are not always covered by medical insurance. Additionally, a claim for damages following a dog bite does not always result in the dog's euthanasia. If you don't make a claim, you can end up paying for your own medical expenses and other damages related to the injury out of pocket.

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This article discusses dog bite injuries and legal options available to Connecticut residents.

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Being attacked by a dog can cause severe trauma that can manifest in both the victim's physical and mental health. You should plan ahead for both medical protection, as well as your legal rights. Think about how your injuries may affect your future finances and how you will manage it now if you've been injured in a dog bite or attack. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury, you deserve fair compensation. Don't make the mistake of giving up too easily.

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Due to the dog bite laws in Connecticut, many victims believe they do not need a lawyer. Even if fault is not contested, an insurance company may lower the amount you receive from your claim or refuse to pay all damages. By hiring Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can rest assured that he will work to maximize the compensation you receive from the insurance company.

Allow us to fight on your behalf.

Brandon J. Broderick can handle your legal needs so you may concentrate on recovering from your injury. Our CT law firm is committed to helping our client recover their losses. They're entitled to it. Know that you have our undivided support as we do everything to defend your rights and see you through this trying period.

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Dog Bite Laws in Connecticut

Connecticut law holds dog owners liable for any injuries caused to individuals or damage to property. As mentioned, there are exceptions to the rule.

Specifically, section 22-357 of the Connecticut General Statutes details the state's legal framework for dog bites. The law holds a dog's owner responsible for damages if the animal causes:

  • An injury to a person or property of another
  • The injured person was not trespassing
  • The injured person was not "teasing, harassing, or abusing" the dog or animal.

Injuries sustained from dog bites and any other injuries caused by a dog are covered under the law. Legal action can be taken under Connecticut's dog bite statute if, for instance, a person is hurt after being knocked to the ground by a pouncing dog.

If a dog or animal bites someone, the owner can be held responsible under state law regardless of whether or not the owner was negligent or reckless or had prior knowledge that the animal was dangerous or aggressive.

A dog bite victim does, however, have a time limit in which to file a lawsuit after the incident. For this reason, if you've been hurt by a dog's bite, it's best to consult with an CT dog bite lawyer.

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"Strict Liability" Dog Bite Law in Connecticut

According to Connecticut's dog bite laws, the dog's owner is responsible for any damages caused by the animal, regardless of whether or not the owner was aware that the dog posed a risk of injuring someone.

If a dog bites someone in Connecticut, the owner is liable for the costs of the medical bills and related costs, no matter how nice the dog's owner thinks their dog is. Most states in the United States adhere to the principle of "strict liability" in cases involving dog bites.

Some states have adopted a "one bite" law instead. According to the "one bite" rule, dog owners are protected from legal action unless they have prior knowledge that their pet is dangerous. In a few jurisdictions, victims must prove that the property owner's lack of reasonable care caused their injuries to succeed in a negligence-based claim.

Trespassing Will Result in a Claim Being Denied

A dog bite victim who wants to file a claim against the dog's owner must show that he or she was in a public area or legally on the owner's property when the attack occurred.

People who trespass on private property, tease or otherwise harass a dog have no legal recourse in Connecticut. However, the law presupposes that children under the age of seven are not capable of committing these acts, and the burden of proof falls on the defendant.

Proving Liability in Connecticut Dog Bite

In the state of Connecticut, dog owners face presumed strict liability for any injuries their pets cause. It is not up to the victim to prove that the owner was negligent or aware of the dog's vicious tendencies. One need merely show that they are a victim by proving the following:

  • That the animal attacked him or her
  • The attack caused injuries
  • They were in a public place or had permission to be there when the attack happened

The victim may also be required to show, in court, that the defendant in the case is the animal's owner.

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Homeowners' Insurance and Dog Bites

According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites and other injuries caused by dogs accounted for more than one-third of all claims paid out by homeowners' insurance in recent years. If you've been attacked by a dog, you may be able to file a claim against the dog owner's insurance company.

Unfortunately, the compensation awarded may not cover all of the losses. For instance, a proprietor's insurance policy can fall short of covering all of his or her medical costs.

Quarantine Requirement

Dogs that have bitten or attacked an individual must be quarantined under Connecticut law.

Following a dog attack or bite, the animal is subject to be placed in quarantine in either a public pound, veterinary hospital or kennel for 14 days to ensure it does not have rabies. The Department of Agriculture (DoAg) commissioner may also approve another location for quarantine, where the dog's behavior will also be examined.

The owner is responsible for paying all costs related to the dog being in quarantine.

Why Dogs Bite

Fear, anxiety, being startled or the desire to protect puppies or humans are common triggers for dog bites. It's usually a natural reaction that the dog doesn't necessarily control.

Other dog bites are the result of human misconduct or neglect, while others are simply from violent dogs that pose a serious problem.

However, while the concept of a "dangerous dog breed" is not backed by evidence, there are certainly breeds that are more likely to bite than others. Among the most common breeds that bite are:

  • Bull terriers
  • Bulldogs
  • Chihuahuas
  • German Shepherds
  • Jack Russells

Ways to Prevent Dog Bites

Any dog, even a familiar or docile breed, is capable of biting, therefore you should never let your guard down around them. Biting is a natural instinct for dogs of all breeds, and biting occurs frequently in situations of self-defense or as a reaction to certain actions. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends the following strategies for preventing dog bites: getting an education, being a responsible pet owner, and staying out of potentially dangerous situations. Having an adult there whenever children and dogs are interacting is essential for preventing serious dog bites.

It's important to know what to do and avoid doing after a dog bite injury. The right knowledge and skills to properly care for and train a pet is also essential. First and foremost, as a dog owner, you have the responsibility of picking a dog that will do well in your environment. Second, you may lower the likelihood of an attack by learning how to teach and socialize your dog appropriately. If your dog has not been socialized in some time, you should be aware of the best practices for reintroducing him or her to the community.

Victims of dog bites should wash the affected area with soap and warm water and then seek medical attention right after. If a dog attack has occurred, you should report it to the police or a local animal shelter immediately.

If you've been injured and aren't sure what to do next, a knowledgeable Connecticut dog bite lawyer can help.

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Brandon J. Broderick Can Help You After A Dog Bite Injury

Those who are attacked by dogs usually sustain serious physical injury and potential mental trauma. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we care about our clients and their well-being. You may put your trust in our legal team and know that we will do everything in our power to get a positive resolution in your case while you focus on your health.

If you find yourself needing a Connecticut dog bite lawyer, you can retain our services without anything being paid upfront. Our fees are contingent upon the success of the case. In the absence of a lawyer, the insurance company may only pay you a bare minimum settlement that won't even begin to cover your expenses. Do not wait after suffering such asn injury. Contact us today, so we can begin the process of seeking compensation for your losses.

We have served clients in the state of Connecticut for years. We are here to help in whatever way you may require.

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