Experienced Advocacy For Dog Bite Victims
An animal attack, especially a dog bite, may last mere seconds. However, recovery from these traumatic incidents can take years. Victims may suffer psychological and physical harm, whether the injured party is a child or an adult. If a dog owner fails to prevent an attack that hurt you or a loved one, you may be entitled to receive compensation.
Winning a dog bite case can be challenging, but our legal team at Mancini Law in Watertown understands what is needed to bring a successful personal injury case. Our attorneys have experience with dog bite claims similar to yours. As your advocates, we will make it our mission to seek the justice and outcome you deserve.
How Bad Does A Dog Bite Have To Be To Bring A Case?
To file an injury claim over a dog bite, you must prove that the injuries sustained from the dog bite require extensive and expensive medical care to treat or that the dog bite resulted in illnesses like rabies, sepsis or tetanus.
Understanding Connecticut’s Dog Bite Laws
In Connecticut, a dog bite is considered “negligence per se.” Unlike other states, Connecticut laws hold dog owners and/or keepers strictly liable for their pet’s actions, whether the animal has a history of attacking other individuals or not.
It is also important to know that it is the dog owner’s/keeper’s homeowners insurance that covers the cost of compensation for the attack. Regardless of where it occurred – at the dog’s home, in a park or on a sidewalk – this policy applies to the dog bite/attack claim.
What Needs To Be Shown In The Case
What this means for accident victims is that they need to prove that:
- The injuries were caused by a dog or were the result of the attack.
- The person being sued, known as “the defendant,” was the owner and/or keeper of the dog.
- The victims were permitted to be on the property when the attack occurred.
- The victims did not provoke the accident (i.e., were not tormenting or teasing the dog).
We understand how to prove these aspects of your case, so do not worry about having to prove them on your own.
What Evidence Do You Need For A Dog Bite Case?
This is the evidence you need for a strong and compelling dog bite case:
- Medical documents: Any records from a doctor that demonstrate the severity of the dog bite and its impact on your health, such as temporary or permanent physical injuries, diseases that stemmed from the dog bite and any physical or mental limitations you may have as a result of the dog bite.
- Proof of owner negligence/liability: Any photographs, documentation or other evidence proving the dog that bit you belongs to the alleged owner and that the owner failed to warn you about the dog’s aggressive behavior.
- Witness statements: If a loved one or bystander witnessed the dog bite, they can provide valuable testimony invaluable to your case.
- Proof of losses: This can include lost wages, cost of medical treatment and other expenses related to the dog bite.
Your dog bite case is unique, and the evidence you have may look different from what others have. We can help you figure out what to do with it. Call 860-325-7347 to speak with someone from our team today.
The Injuries Are Often Severe
Dog bites can cause serious bite wounds, infections, scars, loss of an eye or ear, broken bones, crushed bones, head wounds and damage to the hands or face. If you were knocked down by the dog, you may suffer a traumatic brain injury. Psychological trauma and anxiety disorders may also affect dog bite victims for years. The cost of recovering from such injuries can be overwhelming, so you will need compensation to cover your losses from the attack.
What Are The Rules About Dog Bites In Connecticut?
One of the most important rules to understand about dog bite injuries in Connecticut is that dog owners are responsible for any harm they cause to the people and property they interact with. Because of this, determining who legally owns the dog that bit you is vital in these situations so that you can determine who to file a claim against.
Speak with one of our lawyers today to learn more. Reach out via our contact page.
Potential Damages After A Dog Bite
Dog owners and their insurers may be responsible for compensating victims for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical fees for scarring and other injuries
- Counseling fees for emotional trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Expenses for future medical treatment or property damage
Our lawyers are well-versed in these cases and know how to create compelling arguments that support your case. At our firm, we will work alongside you, keeping you informed and updated on the progress of your case. Litigating and resolving a dog bite case can be stressful. Our attorneys work to lessen the stress of the process for our clients.
Don’t Delay; There Are Time Limits For Filing A Case
Under Connecticut law, you have two years from the date of the attack to file a case. Learn how we can help you hold dog owners and/or keepers financially liable during your free consultation. Call our office at 860-325-7347 or complete our online form. Se habla español.