Getting attacked by an animal of any kind is jarring and traumatic. Because of their primal nature and physical abilities, a dog attack can leave a person with lasting scars, both physically and emotionally. You may be able to receive compensation for a dog attack or bite in Connecticut. Our Hartford County dog bite injury attorneys understand the delicate nature of your situation. Contact a skilled lawyer for legal representation and to gain a better understanding of your rights and options.
What Are Connecticut’s Dog Bite Laws?
Connecticut is what is known as a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites and animal attacks. In a strict liability state, dog owners are responsible for any injuries or damage that their dog causes regardless of whether it is the first time or not. Other states impose a “one-bite” rule, meaning that the first time a dog bites another person the owner is off the hook for damages. The reasoning behind this is that the owner could not have known their dog’s propensity for aggression or violence.
However, in Connecticut, the dog owner is liable for any damage unless it was sustained while the victim was trespassing or provoking the animal in any way. A victim is not required to prove that the owner knew their dog was dangerous or behaved irresponsibly. As long as they can prove that their injuries were a direct result of the animal’s behavior, liability will fall on the owner.
What Compensation Can I Be Awarded?
Your compensation after a dog bite will depend entirely on the costs that you incur. In 2021 the average dog bite settlement in Connecticut was just under $50,000. The amount you are awarded will depend on the severity of your injuries, the owner’s liability and negligence, how long you take to recover, whether or not the case goes to trial, and more.
If you pursue legal action for a dog bite you can expect to be compensated for the following.
- Medical expenses including ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, etc.
- Future medical procedures such as cosmetic surgery
- Loss of income due to recovery
- Future loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Property damage
Once liability is determined you can be awarded damages for all of the above.
Is There a Statute of Limitations for a Dog Bite?
As is the case with most states, Connecticut implements time constraints on a victim’s ability to file a civil lawsuit. While statutes of limitations vary depending on the type of accident and where you are, Connecticut dog bite victims have a deadline of two years to file a claim or lawsuit. If legal action is not taken within two years of the date of the attack, the victim will lose their right to seek compensation.
Contact a skilled CT injury lawyer to obtain representation and ensure you do not miss out on your opportunity to recover damages for your injuries and other expenses.
