Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional trauma. If you’ve been injured by a dog in Connecticut, you may wonder whether the animal must have a history of aggression for you to have a valid case.
The answer is no—Connecticut law does not require proof of prior aggression.
Connecticut’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 22-357, the state follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases.
This means:
- Dog owners are automatically liable if their dog injures someone
- Victims do not need to prove negligence
- There is no requirement to show that the dog had a history of aggression
This law applies whether the incident occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
You Don’t Need to Prove the Dog Was Dangerous
Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite rule,” Connecticut does not require victims to prove that a dog was previously aggressive.
You do not need to show:
- A history of biting or attacks
- That the owner knew the dog was dangerous
- Evidence of aggressive behavior such as growling or snapping
- That the dog belongs to a specific breed
Even if the dog had always appeared friendly, the owner may still be held responsible under Connecticut law.
Exceptions to Liability
There are limited situations where a dog owner may not be held liable.
These include cases where the injured person was:
- Trespassing on the property
- Teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog
Additionally, children under the age of seven are generally presumed not to have provoked the dog, placing a higher burden on the owner to prove otherwise.
What Damages Can You Recover?
If you have been injured by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring or permanent disfigurement
These damages are intended to help you recover from both the physical and emotional effects of the incident.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Taking prompt action after a dog bite can help strengthen your claim.
Acting quickly allows you to:
- Preserve evidence
- Document injuries accurately
- Ensure compliance with Connecticut’s legal deadlines
Connecticut law generally allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim.
Protect Yourself
In Connecticut, a dog does not need to be aggressive for the owner to be held responsible. The law is designed to protect victims and ensure they can recover compensation without proving prior incidents or negligence.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Connecticut, the experienced attorneys at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP are here to help you understand your rights and 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.