Dog Bite & Personal Injury Lawyer in CT
In the summer months there is a notable increase in the incidence of dog bites. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the U.S. Almost one in five of those who are bitten (885,000) require medical attention for dog bite related injuries. In 2006 over 31,000 people under went reconstruction surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs. A recent study has shown that more then 1000 people a day are treated for dog bites in the U.S and in 2010 there were 34 fatalities from dog attacks on people. Children 5 to 9 are among the most at risk of dog bites according to recent information. Many of those injured incur facial injuries.
Here are 9 ways to limit the chances of a dog bite:
- Stay clear of unfamiliar dogs
- Never run from or scream at a dog
- Never play with an unfamiliar dog without its owner present
- If knocked over by a dog roll into a ball and remain still
- Remain still when approached by an unfamiliar dog
- Avoid direct eye contact with a dog
- Do not pet or touch a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first
- Never bother a sleeping, or eating dog or one caring for puppies
- If bitten, report the incident to the Town Animal Control Officer and the Department of Animal Control and make sure animal control copies the dog’s veterinary files and prior bite history.
Connecticut has a strict liability statute for dog bites, Connecticut General Statute Section 22-357. This means in Connecticut if your dog bites someone under most circumstances you are liable for the injuries and expenses they have incurred. A possible exception would be for those trespassing on your property when you posted a “beware of dog” sign, or those who abuse or harass your dog.
If someone you know has been injured by a dog have them treated by a medical provider, call the Animal Control Officer and then have them call the Law Offices of Geoffrey T. Einhorn, LLC 203-269-1665.