Getting bitten by a dog can cause both physical and emotional scarring. Injuries resulting from a dog bite can require expensive medical procedures and prevent you from working. Recovering compensation from the at-fault party can be vital for lessening the financial burden. Fortunately, an experienced dog bite lawyer in Bridgeport can help get you the money you need.
At Claggett, Sykes & Garza, we understand the challenges faced by dog bite victims. Our team of experienced Bridgeport personal injury lawyers will do everything within our power to ensure you recover fair compensation to help put your life back together. Get in touch with us today to set up your free case consultation with a member of our legal team.
Dog Bite Liability in Connecticut
Connecticut General Statutes Section 22-357 imposes strict liability on the owner or keeper of a dog for any damages it causes. Strict liability means that the dog’s owner or the party in charge of its care at the time of the bite will be responsible for all the damages that arise from the attack.
The dog bite victim will not need to prove negligence on the part of the owner or keeper to recover compensation.
However, there are exceptions to strict liability. The owner or keeper will not be liable for any damages if the victim was trespassing or if they abused or otherwise provoked the dog. This exception does not apply if the victim was under the age of seven.
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Get Help From an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney Serving Bridgeport Soon After You Are Bitten
When looking to recover damages after a dog bite, it is critical that you hire an experienced lawyer to help with the case as soon as possible. The Connecticut personal injury statute of limitations typically gives dog bite victims two years to file a lawsuit against the liable party. If you miss this deadline, you could be out of options for collecting compensation.
However, some exceptions may apply to your case that can affect the amount of time you have to file your lawsuit. Depending on the specifics of your case, you could find that you are able to file beyond the standard deadline. Alternatively, you could have significantly less time to file. Your attorney can help ensure that all your paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
Another reason to hire an experienced dog bite lawyer in Bridgeport as soon as possible after a dog bite is that doing so will put them in the best position to build a strong case supporting your claim. They will have a better chance of recovering evidence before it is lost or corrupted. Furthermore, witness testimony is more reliable closer to the time of the attack.
Most Dog Bite Cases Are Resolved Out of Court
When pursuing damages following a dog bite, you should know that it is unlikely that your case will proceed to trial. Instead, your case will most likely be resolved through an out-of-court settlement. The majority of dog bite cases end up settling out of court because it is typically in everyone’s best interest.
By settling, you will be able to recover compensation far more quickly than would be possible if your case went to trial. Meanwhile, the defendant will be able to avoid any unwanted attention that can come with a trial. However, the fact that your case is likely to settle does not mean you should rush into a deal. It’s important to have a lawyer review any offer before you accept.
You will also want to prepare your case as though going to trial is a guarantee. Being ready and willing to take your case to trial will help ensure you are prepared if you are unable to come to terms with a settlement deal. In addition, you will put pressure on the dog owner or keeper to agree to more favorable settlement terms to avoid a trial.
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Damages Commonly Awarded in Dog Bite Cases
There are a variety of damages you may be eligible to pursue after sustaining injuries caused by a dog bite. The specific damages available in your case will depend on the details of the attack and the injuries you sustained. Commonly available damages in these cases include:
- Medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Lost income
- Decreased earning capacity
- Permanent disability
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of companionship
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages
The above list is far from exhaustive. There are a variety of other damages you will potentially be able to recover depending on the specifics of your case. If a loved one was killed as a result of a dog attack, a Bridgeport wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue a wrongful death claim to collect damages specific to these cases, like funeral and burial expenses.
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Get Started on Your Case With Help From an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer in Bridgeport Today
Following a dog bite that results in serious injuries, securing compensation from the dog’s owner or keeper can be essential. The best way to ensure you recover the money you need and deserve is to secure the services of an experienced dog bite attorney in Bridgeport.
At Claggett, Sykes & Garza, we are always ready and willing to take your case to court if that is what is needed to secure a favorable outcome. Contact us by using our chat tool, completing our online contact form, or giving us a call to set up a free case review with a member of our team.
