Bridgeport Dog Bite Lawyer

Bridgeport Dog Bite Attorney

Experiencing an attack from a dog can result in serious, long-term injuries and lifelong post-traumatic stress disorder. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in Bridgeport, Connecticut, pursuing financial compensation for your pain and suffering is essential. A Bridgeport dog bite lawyer at Sorrentino Legal can help you understand your legal rights and determine your next steps.

Connecticut Laws on Dog Ownership

In the United States, 45.5 million households own a dog. Bridgeport has the highest population in the state of Connecticut, with 150,000 residents. With that many residents, dog ownership is common and increases the likelihood of dog attacks. In 2023, USPS reported five dog bite incidents in Bridgeport. An experienced Bridgeport dog bite lawyer can help represent you during your case so you can focus on healing.

All Connecticut dog owners are held legally responsible for injuries caused by their animals. Connecticut doesn’t adhere to the common “one-bite rule,” where a dog owner is only held responsible if the dog has shown previous aggressive behavior or a previous bite incident.

Connecticut General Statutes Section 22-357 covers damages by a dog to a person or their property, like pets or service animals. The dog’s owner is legally responsible for paying for that damage. However, if the injured person was trespassing or abusing the dog at the time of the incident, the owner may not be held responsible.

If the person injured is a child under seven, the law assumes the child didn’t provoke the dog unless proven otherwise. Children are common victims in dog bite incidents and are considered among the most vulnerable, often experiencing more severe injuries.

Types of Injuries Sustained During Dog Attacks

Dog attacks can be extremely traumatic to the victim. While most types of injuries are possible during an attack, there are more common types. Because dogs go after the face, arms, and legs, victims often receive the most amount of physical trauma in those areas.

These areas of injury can damage skin and tissue, lead to broken bones, or lead to the loss of an appendage or eye. The emotional trauma of receiving an obvious injury is severe and lifelong. Scarring is common and can be difficult to cope with. Looking in the mirror and seeing the physical evidence of your trauma can be extremely hard for victims to face every day.

Victims are also highly susceptible to infection from the bites or lacerations. Infections can be a dangerous complication if not prevented with early medical care. Immediate care will address any life-threatening issues, but the recovery process can be years-long and overwhelming for the victim.

Steps to Take After a Dog Attack

Depending on the type of injury sustained during a dog attack, the outcome of your case may vary. Common injuries can include deep lacerations, infections from wounds, scarring, and even nerve damage, disfigurement, or death.

On top of the emotional trauma and dealing with the physical changes, these injuries can require surgeries, physical therapy, and follow-up care. The cost of care can easily add up over time, and you deserve to be compensated for it. The recommended steps to take after a dog bite incident include:

• Seeking immediate medical attention. Immediate care helps to prevent future infection and documents the injury as evidence for your case. Be sure to request copies of all medical reports.
• Report the incident. File a report with local police and request copies of their report and any report filed by Bridgeport Animal Control. In some cases, the dog may be classified as dangerous, leading to stronger support for your claim.
• Gather any evidence as soon as possible. Take photos of the injury, the scene, and the dog if possible.
• Identify the dog owner. Write down their contact details and insurance information. If they don’t offer information, contact the police.
• Contact an attorney. An experienced Bridgeport dog bite attorney can protect your rights and handle communications between you and the dog owner.

FAQs

Reach Out to an Experienced Bridgeport Dog Bite Lawyer

If you or someone you care about has been attacked by a dog in Bridgeport, legal action may be the necessary next step. Here at Sorrentino Legal, we have extensive experience in handling dog bite claims throughout the city and understand what it takes to build a strong case. Contact our team today for a free initial consultation to learn how to begin your claim and seek compensation under Connecticut law.