Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries. In Connecticut, the law strongly protects victims by imposing strict liability on dog owners. If you or a loved one has been bitten, understanding your rights is essential to recovering compensation.
What Is Strict Liability?
Strict liability means that a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog—regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or whether the owner was negligent.
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 22-357:
- A dog owner or keeper is liable if their dog bites or injures someone or causes property damage
- The victim does not need to prove negligence or prior knowledge of the dog’s behavior
- Liability applies as long as the victim was not trespassing or provoking the dog
This makes it easier for victims to pursue compensation compared to other types of personal injury claims.
Who Is Protected Under the Law?
Connecticut’s dog bite law is designed to protect individuals who are lawfully present in public or private places.
This includes:
- Adults and children legally on private or public property
- Mail carriers and delivery drivers
- Neighbors, pedestrians, and bystanders
Even if the dog has never shown aggression before, the owner may still be held liable under the law.
Are There Any Exceptions?
While Connecticut’s strict liability law favors victims, there are limited exceptions where a dog owner may not be held responsible.
These include situations where the injured person was:
- Trespassing on the property
- Teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog
- Committing a crime at the time of the incident
Importantly, children under the age of seven are presumed not to have provoked the dog. This places a greater burden on the dog owner to prove otherwise.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Victims of dog bites in Connecticut may be entitled to recover compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Permanent scarring or disability
These damages are intended to help victims recover both financially and emotionally after a traumatic event.
Don’t Wait—Time Limits Apply
Connecticut law generally allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim, including dog bite cases.
Failing to act within this timeframe can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Taking prompt action is critical to preserving evidence and protecting your claim.
Protect Yourself
Dog bite injuries can have lasting physical and emotional effects, but Connecticut’s strict liability law provides strong protections for victims. Understanding your rights and acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Connecticut, the experienced attorneys at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at 203-438-7450 for a free consultation, or visit www.hcwlaw.com to download one of our FREE legal books and learn more about protecting your case.