The state of Connecticut follows a strict liability dog bite law, which typically places automatic liability on the dog owner after a bite incident occurs. However, there are certain elements that must be in place in order for a strict liability dog bite claim to be successful. Here, we want to discuss Connecticut’s dog bite laws and examine possible compensation individuals may be able to recover.

What is the Dog Bite Law in Connecticut?

The dog bite injury law in Connecticut is fairly strict, and for good reason. Dog bites, even ones that seem minor initially, can lead to serious infections that result in hospitalizations and even surgeries. In Connecticut, we operate under what is known as a “strict liability” dog by law. Under the law, “a dog’s owner or keeper is liable for any damage caused by his or her dog to a person’s body or property unless the damage was sustained while the person was committing a trespass or other tort or was teasing, abusing, or tormenting the dog.”

This strict liability dog by law holds the owner responsible for just about any injury caused by a dog bite that occurs, so long as the victim was not trespassing or in any way provoking the dog. When the law says “keeper,” this can mean someone other than the dog owner who has possession of the dog. We encourage you to speak to your attorney if you have any confusion about the difference between a dog owner and a dog keeper.

The law in Connecticut is different than the law in some other states where they operate under a “one bite rule.” In these states, dog owners are only held liable for a dog bite injury if it can be shown that the dog has previously bitten someone before or has a propensity for aggression.

It is important to note that the strict liability dog by law in Connecticut is more extensive than it is in other states. In this state, the strict liability dog bite rule applies to other injuries caused by a dog aside from bite injuries. For example, if a dog runs into somebody and knocks them down, the dog owner would be held liable for any injuries the person sustains, such as broken or dislocated bones.

Will You Need an Attorney for the Claim?

If you or somebody you love has been bitten or otherwise injured by a dog, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. However, strict liability dog bite claims can still be complicated, even if they seem relatively straightforward. A skilled dog bite injury lawyer can help you throughout this process, and it is important to involve an attorney quickly. An attorney can get involved and conduct a complete investigation into the incident and take over all communication with other parties.

Ultimately, the goal is to recover compensation on behalf of the dog bite injury victim, and this can include coverage of medical expenses, lost income, household out-of-pocket expenses, as well as pain and suffering damages. Your attorney can provide a free consultation and possibly give you a ballpark estimate about how much compensation to expect.