Stamford, Bridgeport & Danbury Attorney Assists You with Connecticut Dog Laws
Lawyer in Stamford, Bridgeport and Danbury ready to help you get compensation for your injuries
Dog bites can be painful and traumatic. This is particularly true when they happen to children. At The Reinken Law Firm, we understand the challenges of dealing with an injury. With our years of experience, extensive knowledge of dog bite law and personalized attention, we fight aggressively for your rights during this stressful time and for the compensation you deserve.
What are the responsibilities of dog owners in Connecticut?
Under Connecticut law, dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their pets. The law is a strict liability law, meaning that the victim does not have to prove that the owner knew the dog was vicious or that the owner was negligent in any way. The only defense open to the owner is if the victim, at the time of receiving the bite, was trespassing or committing some other tort, or provoked the dog in some way. At The Reinken Law Firm, we help clients hold pet owners accountable for the injuries their pets inflict.
What if the owner claims the victim teased or tormented the dog?
When you initiate a dog bite claim, the owner may argue that you teased or tormented the dog. The only exclusion to the strict liability dog bite rule is if the person who sustained the injury while trespassing or otherwise breaking the law, or teasing, tormenting or abusing the dog. In such cases, you need to prove you didn’t participate in any of these activities.
However, when the victim is a minor under the age of 7, the law presumes that the child was not trespassing or teasing, tormenting or abusing the animal. In such cases, it is up to the owner to prove otherwise. Whatever the circumstances of your case, we can assist and guide you in pursuing your dog bite claim.
What if the injury was the result of the negligence of someone who wasn’t the owner?
In certain circumstances, courts may find someone other than the dog’s owner liable for injuries caused by the animal. In such cases, the finding of liability is based on the negligence of the defendant. For example, a landlord might be held liable for a dog bite or other animal attack injury if the landlord knew or should have known the animal was dangerous and didn’t act to reduce or prevent the danger. Our firm can assess all elements of your case to come up with the optimal strategy for seeking the compensation you deserve.
Speak with an attorney serving Stamford, Bridgeport, Danbury and all of Fairfield County about your animal attack today
At The Reinken Law Firm, we offer free consultations during which you speak directly with an attorney. If you’re unable to come to one of our offices, we offer home and hospital visits. Call us at 203-541-0090 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.