Dogs bite people every day. Are you prepared?
Dogs bite people when you least expect it. Just last month, a Ridgefield, Connecticut man and his puppy were viciously attacked by another dog. One in five dog bites nationwide result in injuries requiring medical attention, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Each year, dogs bite more than 4.7 million Americans nationwide. What should you do if a dog bites you or your child? And what if you are the owner of a dog that has bitten someone else?
State laws vary concerning dog bites. In Connecticut, a dog must be quarantined for 14 days after biting a person. State law also holds the owner of a dog liable for most dog attacks. But there are exceptions. They include if the victim was trespassing, committing another crime or teasing, tormenting or abusing the dog. Children under 7 years old who are bitten by a dog are presumed to have not done these things, but even that’s up for debate by law.
So who pays for injuries inflicted by a dog? Don’t worry about having deal with your friends or neighbors directly if you or a loved one is a victim of a dog attack. Insurance companies handle dog bites. That means you get the compensation you’re entitled to without having to make enemies with the owner of the dog.
Certain steps should be taken right after a dog bite. There’s also things you can do as a dog owner to reduce the likelihood of a dog attack. These include:
- Don’t leave your dog alone with small children.
- Take your dog to obedience classes.
- Don’t teach your dog to play rough.
- Keep your dog in a fenced yard.
Dog bite cases are complicated. You may be entitled to more money than you realize. Confused? We can help. Contact the Law Offices of offices of Mark E. Salomone and Morelli today. When you chose us, you get experienced, dog bite injury lawyers who will aggressively fight to get you the justice you deserve.
Don’t let a dog bite ruin your life. Contact Salomone & Morelli today.