Many people refer to dogs as “man’s best friend,” but unfortunately, dogs can turn vicious and attack humans of all ages. Injuries from a dog bite can be dangerous to your health and require extensive medical treatment, as complications are common.
After experiencing a dog bite incident, you may have legal options. Polito & Harrington, LLC is ready to assist you. We obtain successful case results for our clients who suffer injuries in many ways, including dog bites. If you need legal help, reach out to our Waterford dog bite lawyer for a free case evaluation today.
Dog Bite Incidents in Waterford, CT
An average of 69 million households in the U.S. own a dog, and thousands of dogs roam around Waterford, CT, every day.
Be careful around leash-free dog parks, like Stenger Farm Dog Park. When a dog is off its leash, it is more difficult for owners to control their pet, making dog attacks easier.
If you’ve sustained injuries from a dog bite incident in Waterford, CT, consult our dog bite lawyers as soon as possible.
Connecticut Dog Bite Laws
Some states operate under the “one-bite” rule. Under this type of law, a dog’s owner will only be liable if the owner knew or should have known of their dog’s vicious propensities. This rule gets its name from the idea that the dog gets one free bite, and afterward, the owner should know the dog has a propensity to attack.
Connecticut does not follow the one-bite rule. Instead, Connecticut law holds dog owners strictly liable for dog attacks. Strict liability means the victim does not have to establish the dog owner’s negligence to pursue compensation. A dog bite incident is a type of personal injury. As a victim of a dog bite, you must only show a dog attacked you, the dog caused your injuries, and the attack occurred either on public property or when you legally entered private property.
In some cases, however, a victim cannot recover compensation for their dog bite injuries.
These include:
- The victim was trespassing on the owner’s property at the time of the attack
- The victim was committing a tort when the attack occurred
- The victim provoked the dog
If none of the above apply to your case and someone’s dog attacked you, do not hesitate to discuss your case with a qualified dog bite lawyer in Waterford.
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?
A dog’s owner is almost always liable for dog attacks. However, in certain cases, you may hold other individuals responsible, including a dog’s caretaker or a landlord.
In most cases, few liability issues arise. Nonetheless, if your case involves questions about who is at fault, a dog bite lawyer can help clear up any doubts.
Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries are unique because complications arise frequently.
The most common dog attack injuries include:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Fractures or broken bones
- Puncture wounds
- Head and neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Facial injuries
- Nerve damage
Dog attack injuries may become worse. Complications can include severe infections and significant scarring. If the dog is rabid, victims also risk becoming infected with rabies. Some dog attacks even result in death.
Compensation for Dog Bites in Connecticut
Damages for dog attacks compensate you for your losses.
The following damages may be available, depending on the circumstances of your case:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
A Waterford dog bite lawyer can help calculate your damages to help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims
If you wish to file a personal injury claim for your dog bite case, note the statute of limitations. A statute of limitations limits the time to file your lawsuit.
In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for dog bite cases is two years from the incident.
While you can still file your lawsuit after the time expires, you are unlikely to succeed. Upon noticing the running of the statute of limitations, a judge can dismiss your case.
Do not lose your right to fight for compensation after a dog attack. Be sure to discuss your case with a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is handled timely.
Waterford Dog Bites FAQs
What Happens to a Dog After a Dog Attack?
In Connecticut, after a dog bites an individual, it must be under quarantine for 14 days. This allows animal control to investigate the occurrence and ensure the dog is up to date on vaccines and doesn’t have rabies.
Can the Dog Owner Present Any Defenses?
When presented with the possibility of being held strictly liable for a dog attack, owners may present defenses.
Generally, a dog owner can state that either:
- The victim was trespassing at the time the dog attack occurred, or
- The victim provoked the dog
Still, these defenses are not always available to dog owners. Whether the dog owner has a defense will depend on the circumstances.
Can a Dog Owner’s Homeowner’s Insurance Cover My Damages?
Yes. Homeowners’ insurance paid out an average of $882 million in a recent year for dog bite incidents.
A dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance may cover a dog bite incident, depending on the facts of the case and the insurance coverage itself. Nonetheless, it may not be enough to cover your total damages, and you may have to file a lawsuit to recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
What Should I Do After a Dog Attack?
If a dog attacked you and caused injuries, you should:
- Get medical attention right away
- Gather information and evidence regarding the incident, the dog, and their owner
- Document your injuries and losses
- Consult with a skilled dog bite lawyer as soon as possible
Following these steps can help preserve your rights to compensation and build a substantial case.
A Waterford Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help
After a dog bite incident, you may feel unsure where to turn. During a confusing time, count on a knowledgeable Waterford dog bite lawyer to get you on the path to compensation.
Polito & Harrington, LLC has over 45 years of experience helping injured clients seeking financial recovery. We put clients and their needs first, providing you with the peace of mind you need. Our firm and attorneys are well recognized for their hard work and dedication. Let us add you to our family of valued clients.
If you’ve been the victim of a dog attack, you’re never alone. Contact us today at (860) 447-3300 for your free case review.
Polito & Harrington LLC – Waterford Office
567 Vauxhall Street Ext.
Suite 230, Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: (860) 447-3300
Fax: (860) 447-3389
Mail: hpolito@politolaw.com
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