What to Do After a Dog Attack (And How Much Your Case May Be Worth)
Dog bites happen more often than people realize in Connecticut—and when they do, the injuries can be serious, permanent, and emotionally traumatic.
If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation under Connecticut law—even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
At the Law Offices of James F. Aspell, P.C., we help injured victims across Hartford County and throughout Connecticut understand their rights and pursue full compensation after a dog attack.
Call 860-523-8783 for a free consultation.
Connecticut Dog Bite Law: What You Need to Know
Connecticut has one of the strongest dog bite laws in the country.
Under Connecticut law, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog.
That means:
- You do not have to prove the owner was negligent
- You do not have to show the dog had a history of aggression
- You can still recover even if the attack was unexpected
When Is a Dog Owner NOT Liable?
There are only a few exceptions:
- You were trespassing
- You were teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog
- You were committing another criminal act
Outside of those situations, the law generally favors the injured victim.
How Much Is a Dog Bite Case Worth in Connecticut?
This is one of the most common questions we hear.
The value of a dog bite case depends on several factors:
1. Severity of the Injury
- Minor puncture wounds vs. deep lacerations
- Need for stitches, surgery, or plastic surgery
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
2. Location of the Injury
- Face and neck injuries often carry higher value
- Injuries to children tend to be more significant
3. Emotional Trauma
Dog attacks frequently cause:
- PTSD
- Fear of animals
- Anxiety (especially in children)
4. Medical Treatment Required
- Emergency room care
- Follow-up treatment
- Scar revision or reconstructive surgery
5. Long-Term Impact
- Permanent scarring
- Nerve damage
- Functional limitations
Every case is different, but serious dog bite injuries—especially those involving the face or a child—can carry significant value.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause far more than just surface wounds.
We frequently see:
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
- Facial injuries and scarring
- Nerve damage
- Infections (including risk of rabies or bacterial infection)
- Broken bones (especially in children)
- Psychological trauma
These are not minor injuries—and insurance companies often try to minimize them.
What Should You Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?
What you do in the first 24–72 hours can significantly affect your case.
1. Get Medical Treatment Immediately
Dog bites carry a high risk of infection. Documentation also strengthens your claim.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner
Get names, addresses, and vaccination information if possible.
3. Report the Incident
Contact local animal control or the police.
4. Take Photos
Document:
- The injury
- The location
- The dog (if safe)
5. Do NOT Speak to the Insurance Company Alone
They may try to settle quickly for less than your case is worth.
6. Speak With a Connecticut Dog Bite Lawyer
Early guidance can make a major difference in outcome.
Who Pays for a Dog Bite Claim in Connecticut?
Most dog bite claims are covered by homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance.
That means:
- You are usually not suing the dog owner personally
- Compensation is typically paid by an insurance company
- Claims can often be resolved without litigation—but must be handled correctly
Special Considerations in Child Dog Bite Cases
Dog bites involving children require special attention.
Children are more likely to suffer:
- Facial injuries
- Permanent scarring
- Emotional trauma
Courts and insurers often recognize the long-term impact of these injuries, which can increase case value.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Connecticut
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to bring a claim.
However:
- Evidence can disappear quickly
- Witnesses become harder to locate
- Insurance companies begin building their defense immediately
Waiting can hurt your case.
Why Choose the Law Offices of James F. Aspell, P.C.?
Decades of Experience
Attorney Jim Aspell has handled thousands of injury cases in Connecticut.
Connecticut-Focused Practice
We understand local courts, insurance carriers, and how these cases are evaluated in Hartford and surrounding areas.
Personal Approach
You are not just a file. We take the time to understand your injury, your recovery, and your goals.
Strategic Case Evaluation
We don't just process claims—we evaluate how to maximize value based on injury type, scarring, and long-term impact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases
Do I still have a case if the dog never bit anyone before?
Yes. Connecticut's strict liability law means prior history is not required.
What if the dog belonged to a friend or neighbor?
You may still have a claim. Insurance usually covers the loss.
Can I recover for scarring?
Yes. Scarring—especially on the face—can significantly increase case value.
What if my child was bitten?
Child cases are often more serious and should be evaluated carefully.
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case?
For minor cases, maybe not. But for anything involving scarring, stitches, or emotional trauma, legal guidance is critical.
Speak With a Connecticut Dog Bite Lawyer Today
A dog bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. You deserve to understand your rights and your options.
If you were bitten by a dog in Hartford, West Hartford, New Britain, Bristol, Farmington, or anywhere in Connecticut, we are here to help.
Call 860-523-8783 for a free consultation.
Personal Injury Cases We Handle
- Construction Accidents
- Bicycle Accidents
- Dog Bite Claims
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Catastrophic Injuries
- Premises Liability
- Swimming Pool Accidents
