Dogs may be man’s best friend, but not all dogs are friendly. Whether out of fear or aggression, some dogs can cause significant injuries and disfigurement when they bite. Children are particularly susceptible to serious dog bite injuries.
Recovering compensation for a dog bite injury can be complicated. Many victims fear seeking money for their injuries because they don’t want to get the dog or its owner in trouble. However, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. You deserve the opportunity to recover the money you need for your injuries.
At Jainchill & Beckert, LLC, we understand that you need a powerful advocate willing to protect you and your family during this challenging time. Our experienced Hartford dog bite lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. To find out how we can help, contact us for a free consultation.
How Common Are Dog Bites in Hartford, CT?
Unfortunately, dog bites can be a common occurrence. The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates recent dog bite claims cost homeowners insurance companies over $1 million in one year. The average cost per claim hovers around $64,555 and has steadily increased over the past few years.
Although it is a familiar comedy trope that dogs go after postal carriers, statistics indicate postal workers are particularly susceptible to dog bites and attacks. Connecticut ranks number 27 in the nation for the number of dog bite incidents impacting postal carriers. Connecticut mail carriers were bitten by dogs at least 67 times in one year.
What Injuries Most Commonly Result from a Dog Bite?
Dog bites and attacks can cause a wide array of significant and even life-threatening injuries. Some injuries leave severe scarring, disfigurement, and physical deformities, in addition to mental scars like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The most common injuries that result from dog bites can include:
- Puncture wounds
- Soft tissue damage
- Lacerations
- Scrapes
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Facial injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Eye injuries
External physical damage is not the only medical concern dog bite victims must cope with after an attack. Dogs can also carry several types of bacteria in their mouths and saliva, which can cause significant illnesses or infections. Some reports suggest that infection occurs in 15 to 20 percent of dog bite wounds. Carefully monitor dog bite wounds for signs of infection like swelling, pus, and becoming warm to the touch.
Medical conditions that can come from a dog bite include:
- Rabies
- Tetanus
- MRSA
- Pasteurella
- Capnocytophaga
Following any dog bite incident, seek medical attention immediately. Prophylactic measures can help prevent rabies from taking hold in the body. When rabies symptoms finally manifest, the disease is nearly 99 percent fatal. Contact our Hartford dog bite lawyer today.
Does Hartford Have Leash Laws?
The City of Harford does have leash laws on the books. Dogs cannot run free anywhere in the city. They must always wear a leash, including in city parks. Violating the leash law ordinance can result in fines of up to $50.
Does Connecticut Have a “One Bite” Rule?
Some states operate under a “one bite” rule, meaning a dog owner is only liable for someone else’s injury if they knew beforehand that the dog would act dangerously or aggressively. In many cases, a victim must prove that the dog had previously bitten others or acted aggressively before they can recover compensation for a dog bite injury.
Connecticut does not operate under a one-bite system. Instead, the state follows strict liability. In Connecticut, dog owners are liable for any harm caused by their dog to another person unless it happened while trespassing or abusing the animal. Our Hartford dog bite injury attorney can help.
Are Some Dog Breeds More Likely to Attack Than Other Breeds?
No one wants to believe that their beloved pet can hurt another person. However, some dog breeds are naturally more powerful and aggressive than others. Dogs may all belong to one species, but each breed has unique genetic traits and characteristics. Those with aggressive traits tend to be some of the most dangerous breeds.
According to reports, the dog breeds most likely to bite and attack include:
- Pitbulls
- Rottweilers
- German shepherds
- American bulldogs
- Mastiffs
- Bullmastiffs
- Huskies
- Cane Corso
It’s important to note that any animal can bite. However, some breeds have a stronger tendency to bite and attack than others.
Is the Dog’s Owner Always Liable If the Dog Bites Someone?
In most cases, dog owners are liable for the injuries their animal causes to another person. However, there are some exceptions. Those bitten by a dog while trespassing on another’s property do not have the same legal protections as other individuals. Someone who teases or abuses an animal does not have the same protections, either.
Will the Dog Owner’s Homeowners Insurance Policy Pay for Compensation for My Injuries?
You can often file a claim with the dog owner’s homeowners insurance company to pursue compensation for your injuries. A Hartford dog bite lawyer can build a claim for you and negotiate with the insurer for fair compensation.
What Compensation Can I Receive for My Injuries?
The value of a dog bite claim varies depending on the situation’s circumstances and the severity of the injuries.
However, dog attack victims can pursue money for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Mental distress
- Disability or disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
A skilled Connecticut dog bite lawyer can review the specifics of your claim and calculate its fair value.
Does Connecticut Have a Time Limit for Filing a Dog Bite Injury Case?
If a personal injury lawsuit offers you the best chance at recovering the compensation you deserve, you have a time limit to file your case. Connecticut gives dog bite victims two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit.
Contact a Hartford Dog Bite Lawyer
Has a dog injured you or a family member? Dog attacks are serious business. A Hartford dog bite attorney with Jainchill & Beckert, LLC can help you pursue the money you need to help you recover from this traumatic experience. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn how.
