Representing Dog Bite Victims
Most dog-human interactions are playful and positive. After all, it's only human nature to want to pet a friendly-looking dog. However, sometimes dogs initiate the contact, and the interaction becomes violent. It's estimated that about two percent of the American population, about 4.5 million individuals, suffer a dog bite each year.
If you or a loved one has been injured by an aggressive dog, please contact our Ridgefield dog bite attorneys at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP.
How Serious is the Dog Bite Problem?
Unfortunately, dog attacks on humans are more common than we might like to admit. About 800,000 Americans seek medical attention each year for injuries sustained during a dog attack. Of those, nearly half will require medical treatment in an emergency room.
How is Liability Determined in Dog Bite Cases?
In the State of Connecticut, owners and keepers are held responsible for their dogs with very few exceptions related to trespassing or animal abuse that would cause a dog to react violently in self-defense.
According to state law:
“If any dog does any damage to either the body or property of any person, the owner or keeper, or, if the owner or keeper is a minor, the parent or guardian of such minor, shall be liable for such damage, except when such damage has been occasioned to the body or property of a person who, at the time such damage was sustained, was committing a trespass or other tort, or was teasing, tormenting or abusing such dog. ”
What Kinds of Damages can I Expect?
While every case is different, successful plaintiffs in dog bite cases may receive compensation for any of the following:
- Possible Compensation in Dog Bite Cases
- Medical bills and related expenses
- Loss of past and future income
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of opportunities
- Property damage
- Emotional damages, including stress, embarrassment, and depression
In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded in order to punish particularly egregious negligence.
Are certain breeds more vicious than others?
While dog owners will vehemently claim that aggression is more about training than breed, the statistics say otherwise. Study after study demonstrates that pit bulls and rottweilers are by far the most violent breeds, as measured by attacks on humans resulting in serious injury or death; however, keep in mind that any dog that has been trained to attack can be vicious, even lethal.
Free Case Evaluations at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP!
If you have been bitten by a dog, you may be able to recover damages. Please contact the Connecticut dog bite lawyers of Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP today to schedule your free consultation. With over seven decades of collective experience, we can capably handle your case.