A dog bite can be extremely traumatic, with significant long-term consequences. If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite, the owner or keeper could be liable for damages. A Torrington dog bite accident attorney with Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC can guide you through the legal process.
After a painful accident, you probably don’t want to navigate the legal process on your own. Managing your case means speaking with insurance companies, determining which laws apply to your case, and facing the liable party. Having our Torrington personal injury lawyers on your side, you don’t need to worry about the legal details of your case. Call us today to get started with a free consultation.
Seeking Compensation for a Dog Bite Accident in Torrington
When you suffer a dog bite due to someone else’s negligence, you have a right to recover compensation from the at-fault party. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s dog bite attorneys in Torrington have experience holding animal owners and handlers responsible for the injuries they’ve caused. Let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Damages we could pursue on your behalf include:
Economic Losses
Economic damages are the tangible financial losses you suffered due to the dog attack. Emergency medical treatment, critical care, surgery, physical therapy, and transportation to and from doctor’s appointments are common economic losses after a dog bite.
If your injuries caused long-term disability that compromises your ability to return to work, you could claim lost current and future income. In addition, you may claim medical bills you incur to accommodate your disability, such as renovations to your home, assistive devices, and domestic assistance.
Non-Economic Losses
While non-economic losses are intangible, they are no less challenging for dog bite victims. Following a dog bite injury, you may feel frightened and distressed. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may arise, and you may not enjoy hobbies or activities you once loved. You can recover compensation for emotional injuries like mental anguish.
Scarring, disfigurement, and permanent physical injuries can also result in loss of life enjoyment and diminished quality of life. You should not have to face these challenges on your own. The responsible party should be held accountable for the full extent of your losses.
Our personal injury attorneys are here to provide the legal support you need during this difficult time. We aim to secure fair compensation for dog bite injuries, and we do not settle for less than our clients deserve.
Comprehensive Legal Assistance From Dedicated Dog Bite Attorneys in Torrington
Since 1938, Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC has provided legal representation for injury victims in Torrington and throughout Connecticut and Long Island. Over the past eight decades, our firm has established a reputation for excellence through personalized representation and aggressive advocacy.
Once you sign a contract with our firm, we begin providing comprehensive legal services, including:
Taking Calls and Responding to Correspondence
With Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC, you need not worry about answering calls or responding to emails about your personal injury claim. We handle every aspect of your case, which includes responding to requests for information and handling pushy insurance adjusters.
Investigating Your Dog Bite Case
Dog bite cases can be complicated. Discovering who is at fault for your dog attack injuries can be especially difficult while you undergo treatment for those injuries. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s dog bite lawyers in Torrington can investigate the accident to determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Gathering and Submitting Evidence
Our legal team has experience obtaining evidence for dog bite cases. We can compile the evidence to prove fault and establish your losses for an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Such evidence may include:
- Photos of your injuries and the site of the dog bite accident
- Videos of the dog attack, if available
- Witness statements from people who saw the dog bite incident
- Any previous complaints or legal action involving the dog that attacked you
- Bills, invoices, and receipts for medical expenses and related costs
- Pay stubs and financial statements to quantify lost income
- Property damage, including damage to a companion animal or guide dog and associated veterinary costs
- Expert testimony from medical professionals
Negotiating With Opposing Counsel and Insurance Carriers
Attorneys for the responsible party and insurance carriers may attempt to shift blame or imply you were somehow responsible for the attack. They may offer a lowball settlement or ask you to sign a waiver absolving them of guilt.
Our Torrington dog bite injury lawyers are accustomed to these tactics. We know how to navigate the claims process and counter bad faith offers to secure the compensation you deserve.
Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Parties
Filing a dog bite lawsuit may seem like a daunting prospect, but Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC can make sure the process runs as smoothly as possible. We prepare every case for trial from the beginning, so we are always ready to advocate for you before a judge and jury.
By filing a lawsuit against the liable parties, you show them you are serious about your claim. This may encourage them to offer more reasonable settlement terms so they can avoid an expensive trial. If the case does go to trial, our trial attorneys will not hesitate to defend your legal rights in the courtroom.
Determining Liability is a Crucial Step In Building a Dog Bite Accident Case
Determining liability in the event of a dog bite typically revolves around understanding local laws and regulations concerning pet ownership and animal control. Under the state’s strict liability statute, the general rule in Connecticut is that the dog’s owner or keeper is responsible for any damage caused by the dog, including injuries from bites.
Connecticut Dog Bite Law and Strict Liability
Connecticut’s law concerning dog bites is governed by General Statutes Section 22-357, which operates under a strict liability framework. Strict liability means that the dog’s owner or keeper can be held responsible for the injuries and damages caused by their dog without the injured party having to prove negligence. This is significant because the victim only has to demonstrate that the injury occurred and that the defendant was the owner or keeper of the dog at the time.
Definition of Owner or Keeper
The terms owner and keeper are crucial in understanding liability. An owner is typically the person who legally owns the dog. A keeper can be anyone who was in charge of the care or control of the dog when the incident occurred. This could include a family member, a friend watching the dog temporarily, or even a professional dog walker. In such cases, both the owner and the keeper can be held liable.
Exceptions to Strict Liability in Dog Bite Cases
While Connecticut’s dog bite law is comprehensive, there are notable exceptions where the owner or keeper might not be held liable:
- Trespassing: If the person was bit while trespassing on the owner’s property without permission, the owner may not be liable for the dog bite.
- Provocation: If the dog was provoked into attacking, either through abuse, torment, or a threatening gesture, the owner or keeper might not be held liable.
- Occupational Risk: In some cases, individuals whose occupation naturally involves the risk of dog bites, such as veterinarians or animal control officers, may find it more challenging to claim damages.
Comparative Fault
Connecticut applies a modified comparative fault rule in personal injury cases. If the victim’s actions contributed to their injury (for example, they ignored signs warning that a dog was dangerous), their compensation might be reduced by the percentage of their fault. If their fault is more than 50%, they cannot recover any damages.
Liability Insurance and Homeowners’ Policies
In many cases, dog bites might be covered under the dog owner’s homeowners’ insurance policy. These policies often provide liability coverage for injuries caused by the homeowner’s pets. However, it’s essential for dog owners to confirm that their policy includes such coverage, as some insurers have restrictions based on dog breeds or history of aggression.
Torrington Dog Bite Lawyers With a Reputation for Success
At Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC, you are not just a client, you are part of the family. Our dedicated injury lawyers treat every claim as if it were for a family member. That means focused, personalized attention and aggressive representation.
Our Lawyers Have Secured Millions in Successful Dog Bite Claims
We pride ourselves on providing outstanding service to our clients, and our approach has earned us a reputation for success. Since its inception, our law firm has won millions in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients. Some of our notable dog bite settlements include:
- $750,000 settlement for a child attacked by a dog while riding his bike
- $422,018 settlement for a client bitten by two dogs
- $300,000 settlement for a child bitten by an uncontrolled dog
- $290,000 settlement for a client bitten by a dog while riding a horse
- $275,000 settlement for a client bitten on the face by a neighbor’s dog
Personalized Legal Representation on a Contingency-Fee Basis
Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC understands that a dog bite can create deeply personal challenges physically, mentally, and financially. We aim to reduce the stress associated with your claim by providing free consultations and representation on a contingency-fee basis. Personal injury victims pay nothing for our legal services until we secure a fair settlement.
Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Torrington
It can take a while for you to recover from serious dog bite injuries. However, while you heal, legal deadlines can approach quickly. The statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim in Connecticut is usually two years, according to CT Gen. Stat. § 52-584. This time frame may differ based on your case details.
Instead of waiting until you are recovered, consider reaching out to our Torrington dog bite lawyers as soon as possible. We can begin gathering evidence and ensure you’re aware of the deadlines that apply to your case, so you do not lose your chance for a fair settlement.
Additional Laws That Could Affect Your Torrington Dog Bite Claim
Dog bite laws differ by state, and some cities, towns, and municipalities have their own ordinances. Understanding the dog bite laws in Torrington can help you determine whether you have grounds to file a dog bite claim:
- CT Gen Stat § 22-357 addresses dog damage to people or property. It stipulates that the dog’s owner or keeper is responsible for the damage caused.
- CT Gen Stat § 22-356 indicates that if multiple dogs are responsible for damage or injury, multiple owners or keepers can be held liable.
- CT Gen Stat § 22-362 states that the owner or keeper of a dog that habitually chases, interferes with, bites, or annoys people or vehicles on a highway can be charged with a Class D Misdemeanor.
- CT Gen Stat § 22-364 prohibits owners and keepers from letting their dogs roam at large. Owners or keepers who are aware that their dog exhibits vicious behavior and allow their dog to roam at large may face hefty fines and jail time.
A criminal claim against a dog owner or keeper does not typically result in compensation for the victims. However, your attorney can use certain evidence, convictions, and penalties to support your civil claim against the responsible party. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s dedicated dog bite lawyers can help you explore your legal options.
Begin Your Case With a Review From Our Torrington Dog Bite Legal Team
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in a dog attack, you could pursue damages through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s compassionate dog bite attorneys in Torrington can help you understand your legal rights and support you through the claim process.
Call us at today for a free consultation with one of our dedicated team members and Let Our Family, Help Your Family