If you are walking down the street minding your own business and an owner and their dog approach you may not think much of it. If the dog ends up getting aggressive and actually bites you, then your attitude towards the owner and the dog may change.
In Connecticut dog bite injuries, the dog’s owner is held to a strict liability which means that if a dog bites you, the owner is responsible. There is however one instance when that is not true. In the state, if you are trespassing on property and teasing a dog you may not have a chance to hold the owner accountable. Dogs can be protective of their owner and when teased may bite you, therefore you should never tease a dog or trespass on his/her property.
This is the law for anyone over the age of 7 years old. If a child, under the age of 7 is bitten by a dog, even if he/she is teasing or trespassing then the owner of the dog may still be held liable. The law accounts for a child’s naivety of the situation in determining liability.
When dealing with unknown dogs it is best to stay away. No matter how friendly a dog may seem, he/she may turn uncomfortable and agitated quickly which could mean trouble for you and whomever you are with.
If you or a loved one were involved in a Connecticut dog bite incident you may need to speak with an attorney. Contact our office and one of our experienced and knowledgeable attorneys will review your case.