Connecticut Dog Bite Attorneys

Serving all of Hartford, New Haven, New London, CT areas

Top Dog Bite Lawyers in Connecticut

Dogs make wonderful pets and companions. However, they can also cause a great deal of harm to people if the owner is negligent. Dog bite attacks cause terrible injuries, including deep tissue wounds, scars, scrapes, nerve damage, bruises, dangerous infections, disfigurement and severe psychological trauma. The Connecticut dog bite attorneys at McCoy & McCoy understand how damaging this incident can be.

Representation to Fight for You or Your Injured Child

If you or a family member has been injured by a dog, a Connecticut dog bite lawyer at McCoy & McCoy may be able to help you recover costs for past, present and future damages and losses relating to dog bite injuries.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if your settlement is successful. This means you don't pay us until your case is settled.
With the help of our Connecticut dog bite attorneys, we can arrange medical treatment (most commonly plastic surgery) and physical and psychological therapy by doctors who work on a lien basis for you.

Understanding Connecticut's Dog Bite Laws and Regulations

Don't be caught off guard by a potential dog bite incident. Learn about the current dog laws and regulations in Connecticut.

In Connecticut, pet owners are liable for damages from a dog bite or attack. The liability is based on the state’s negligence rule, which holds the owner responsible for any foreseeable act or harm that their pet causes. If a dog bites without provocation, the injured party can file lawsuit against the owner and usually recover damages for any medical expenses, property damage, and other losses sustained due to the incident.

Dog Owner Responsibilities

Dog owners in Connecticut have a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe from the potential hazards of owning a pet. Failing to do so can result in severe legal penalties, as the state’s negligence rule makes the dog owner liable for any foreseeable act or harm that their dog may cause. It is also important that dog owners properly train and socialize their animals to make them less likely to bite or attack someone unprovoked. 

 

The Devastating Consequences of an Animal Attack

Physical and Emotional

Painful Injuries

Dog attacks represent some of the most gruesome types of injuries that are suffered, particularly where a child is involved (as is often the case).

Permanent Scarring

Not only are these attacks traumatizing to the child, but many of them result in injuries to the face, scarring and possibly permanent disfigurement. In all animal attack cases, it is essential that measures be taken promptly to preserve evidence, investigate the accident in question, and to enable physicians or other expert witnesses to thoroughly evaluate any injuries.

Children are Involved

The most disturbing aspect of dog bite cases is that almost half of them involve child victims, with a majority of those affecting children between the ages of 5 and 9. Estimates show that the number of dog bite injuries caused in this age group surpasses playground injuries in the same group.

Most Common in Familiar Settings

Dog attack statistics report that most attacks are caused by dogs the victim is familiar with. Most biting dogs belong to a family member or friend, and the majority of incidents happen at home or in a familiar place.

Anxiety & Fear

Many people who are injured by dogs own dogs, have grown up with dogs and are generally fond of dogs. Unfortunately, it only takes one injury for many people to become anxious, nervous and frightened around dogs that they used to trust and love. This is often a devastating, uncontrollable and unwanted reaction to dog attacks for dog owners or people who have family and close friends who are dog owners. Many people report symptoms of anxiety and fear at the sight of or in close proximity to dogs in public as well.
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Each year it is estimated that almost 5 million people are bit by dogs, and at least half of these incidents require medical attention. Suffering a dog attack can be emotionally scarring.

Connecticut Dog Bite Laws FAQ

What happens when a Dog Bites Someone in Connecticut?

According to the Connecticut General Assembly, after a dog bites a person, the dog must be put into a 14-day quarantine. The dog bite victim has the right to sue the owner for any injuries that occurred. 

What should you do if another dog attacks your dog?

Step away from the fight and be calm. Do NOT try to stop it. Distract the dogs with an object or noise to get them to stop. 

Who is Legally Responsible for a Dog Bite Injury in Connecticut?

Connecticut law dictates that dog owners are responsible for their own dog’s actions. If a dog bites and injures you, the owner of that dog is to be held responsible for the resulting injuries. A dog owner is responsible for all bites, even if the dog never bit anyone before, as Connecticut has a “strict liability statute” concerning dog bites, attacks and aggression. Contact a dog bite injuries lawyer for more information. 

What is Strict Liability?

Strict liability means that the owner of the dog is legally responsible for the actions of the dog if it attacks someone or destroys his or her property. The only exceptions to this rule are if the victim was trespassing or if the dog was provoked by someone aged 7 years or older, including teasing, torment and abuse. A dog does not have to have previously bit, attacked or acted aggressively toward a human or other animal for strict liability to apply.

What is Dog Fright?

Dog fright is when an animal shows aggressive and threatening behaviors, causing the plaintiff to fall or injure themselves trying to get away. 

How long do I have to file a dog bite case in CT?

The Connecticut law states that a victim of a dog bite has a three-year statue of limitation to file a dog bite claim. If you have been bitten by a dog, you must file suit within three years of the incident or else you may not be able to recover any potential compensation. 

How Do I Know If I Should Get a Dog Bite Lawyer?

If you have been a victim of a dog bite, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. A Connecticut dog bite lawyer will fight to get you the maximum compensation to make up for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc. The Connecticut dog bite lawyers at McCoy & McCoy have over 50+ years of combined experience helping people recover from dog bites. Call us today. 

Where Can I find a Connecticut dog bite lawyer?

The Connecticut dog bite lawyers at McCoy & McCoy are conveniently located in Hartford, CT, however, we are more than happy to come to you!

Who do you sue if another dog attacks your dog?

If another dog attacks your dog, you can sue the dog’s owner if negligence can be proven. This could be that the owner failed to properly control their dog. 

Can you sue if another dog attacks your dog?

Yes, you can sue if another dog attacks your dog. 

Choosing the Right Connecticut Dog Bite Lawyer

Facing a serious injury caused by a dog bite can be overwhelming, which is why having the right Connecticut dog bite lawyer on your side is essential.

Relevant Experience

When researching Connecticut dog bite lawyers, one of the most important things to look for is a proven track record in this area. Many cases involving dog bites have unique aspects and legal issues that require an attorney who is knowledgeable in this arena and has experience dealing with similar cases.

The lawyers at McCoy & McCoy have represented dog bite victims for over 50+ years. We understand the complexities of dog bite cases and will fight hard to get you the best possible outcome. 

Credentials

You should always research a potential dog bite lawyer in Connecticut to ensure they have the right credentials and experience. McCoy & McCoy’s principal attorney, Frank McCoy, Jr., is board certified in civil trail law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy which is a division of the American Bar Association’s National Board of Legal Specialty Certification. This certification means that Attorney McCoy is a recognized specialist in the area of civil litigation. He is among less than .05% of registered attorneys in the state who have this certification.

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Arrange a Consultation with a Dog Bite Lawyer in Connecticut

Arrange for a consultation meeting with the chosen dog bite lawyer in Connecticut. We offer 100% free consultations with no obligations. You can contact us by phone, fill out a form, or visit our office. If you can not come to us, we will gladly come to you!

What to Expect During Your Consultation

The CT dog bite lawyer will want to discuss the details of your dog bite incident in-depth to assess your potential case. During this time, you may want to ask relevant questions about our practice areas, experience with dog bite cases, proposed strategies for your case, and potential outcomes. By obtaining clear answers about each of these topics ahead of time, you’ll be more informed when it comes time to sign a contract with your CT dog bite lawyer. 

Educate Yourself on Signs of Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

Educating yourself on aggressive behavior in dogs is an important step toward reducing the chance of being involved in a dog bite incident. If you are around pets, learning to identify the signs of aggression and understanding how to manage it can help protect your family and friends and reduce the potential for harm. Common signs of aggressive behavior include: 
  • Growling
  • Barking
  • Baring teeth
  • Snarling
  • Crouching down with ears laid back

Implement Basic Safety Measures Around Animals to Avoid Unwanted Situations

In order to reduce the risk of being bitten, it is important to demonstrate and reinforce appropriate behaviors around animals. While dogs are usually friendly, assumptions about their temperament or intentions should never be made. Do not approach unfamiliar animals or crowd them. Children should be taught not to hit or tease pets and should always be supervised by an adult when interacting with animals. If a dog appears agitated or uncomfortable, do not interact with it and give the animal plenty of space.

What our Clients Say

  • Dalma M.
    Former Client

    I would highly recommend McCoy and McCoy attorney Jessica, she helped through out the whole process and was always there to answer my questions and guide me through my case. She was kind, supportive and provided excellent service. I was able to get a settlement that was a lot more than what I was expecting. I am very happy with the outcome which is why I am using their services again for another case.

  • Shakara J.
    Former Client

    My experience with McCoy & McCoy was better than I could have expected everyone was always so friendly and willing to answer any questions. They walked me through the entire process and cared more about my treatment then anything else. I would definitely recommend them to anyone who is looking for an attorney who is specializes in accidents.

  • Lila S.
    Former Client

    Attorney McCoy did an excellent job handling my personal injury claim. We were able to settle the case without trial. He did a great job negotiating my settlement and we were poised for trial the entire time. The staff was also fabulous. The office manager Jessica listened to my issues and was very supportive. The paralegal, Pat, was also wonderful. Always polite and answered all my questions promptly along the way. I highly recommend atty McCoy! I also found this firm on the web. No need to be afraid if you are making the right choice for an atty. You are in great hands with McCoy and McCoy.

  • Jimmy L.
    Former Client

    The law firm provided us with an excellent service from the time we made the first phone call to when the case was settled. Attorney McCoy and his staff gave us professional service. They even went out of their way to call and check up on us considering we were disabled on crutches. We were always kept updated on the status of the case and the outcome. Anyone who is interested in finding a one of a kind firm, I highly recommend McCoy & McCoy law firm.

Dog Bite Compensation

At McCoy & McCoy, we are experienced victims’ advocates who have over five decades of firsthand knowledge of accident investigation, damages calculation, and negotiation and defense of injury cases. Thousands of injured parties and their families throughout Connecticut have relied on our guidance and legal abilities to help them recover compensation for their injuries.

No Upfront Fees

Each person at our firm is dedicated to seeing to it that your personal needs are met without delay. Therefore, we operate on a contingency-fee basis, expecting no compensation for our services unless we are successful in obtaining you compensation first. Please call us to speak with a Connecticut dog bite lawyer today.

Tell Our Connecticut Dog Bite Lawyers About Your Case Today

The Connecticut dog bite lawyers at McCoy & McCoy passionate about animals, especially dogs. Being bitten by one, however, can have permanent consequences. If you have suffered an injury from a dog bite, reach out to the dog bite lawyers in Hartford, CT by filling out the online free and confidential case evaluation form or calling us at 1-860-244-9100.

 

Do not waste time, call us now so you can start your recovery and we can handle all legal aspects of your case. 

We prioritize our clients’ wants and needs first and foremost, never tiring in our efforts to secure the best outcome possible for your case. We are here to help you maximize your recovery and heal as easily as possible.