What are your legal options after a dog bite injury?

Most Connecticut residents probably don't expect to be in any danger when they go to another person's property, but the reality is that all too often there are dangerous conditions that visitors may not be aware of. One of those dangers is the property owner's animal -- specifically dogs.

While there are plenty of dog lovers in America, the fact is that dog bite injuries can occur, even if the dog had not bitten someone before. The worst of these types of attacks will leave the victim seriously injured, scarred for life or even left disabled or disfigured. So, what legal options do Connecticut residents have if they are injured in a dog bite attack?

Well, for starters, the most likely option is to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the dog's owner. After all, pet owners are almost always responsible for the actions of their dogs. A pet owner might claim that the animal never showed any type of dangerous tendencies before the attack. However, many states have a "strict liability" stance towards dog bite cases, meaning that dog owners are responsible if their pet attacks, even if the pet owner did not have any reason to believe his or her dog would bite.

In states that don't take a "strict liability" stance towards dog bite cases, a pet owner may still be responsible for a dog bite if he or she knows or should know that his or her pet was dangerous. A pet owner may also claim that the animal was provoked. The injured party will need to be prepared to prosecute the claim with evidence that can carry the burden of a "preponderance of the evidence."

Medical costs are the primary motivation in seeking financial compensation from a pet owner after a dog attack. These attacks can result in significant medical expenses, especially when the treatment for the injuries requires hospitalization. Connecticut residents who are injured in this type of attack may need to get more information about their legal rights and the types of financial compensation that can be pursued in a personal injury lawsuit.

Post Type: Q&A