In New Haven, CT dog bite lawyer services are often sought by delivery workers who have been bitten while performing their jobs. At Nugent & Bryant, we know these incidents can cause serious injuries and lost wages, making it important for workers to understand their rights and available legal remedies.
Why Delivery Workers Face Higher Risks
Delivery drivers, postal workers, and couriers are at greater risk of dog bites because their work requires them to approach homes and businesses every day. Dogs often react defensively when someone enters their perceived territory, even if the visitor is simply dropping off a package. Workers delivering food, mail, or packages can find themselves in dangerous situations without warning. It is up to the dog owner to keep their pet secure.
In addition to dogs acting on instinct, many delivery workers are under time pressure and cannot always wait for an owner to secure a pet. This reality means encounters happen quickly, and workers may not have the chance to avoid a bite.
Medical And Financial Impact
Even what may seem like a minor bite can lead to infections or lasting scars. Treatment can require stitches, antibiotics, or even surgery in severe cases. For workers, this often means missing time from their routes and losing income, adding financial stress on top of physical pain. Medical expenses, combined with time away from work, can create an overwhelming burden.
Beyond immediate treatment, victims may face long-term complications such as nerve damage or psychological distress. Some workers develop anxiety about returning to their routes, which can make continuing their job difficult. State law allows injury victims to pursue compensation for these costs when the dog’s owner is responsible. If you are bitten, be sure to document the scene and your injuries to protect the compensation you can be awarded.
Strict Liability Standard
State law applies a strict liability rule to dog bite cases, which means owners are usually held responsible regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression before. This law makes it easier for delivery workers to pursue recovery without needing to prove prior negligence. The intent is to place responsibility on owners to control their pets and reduce the chances of repeated attacks.
That said, owners sometimes argue that the worker provoked the dog or entered without permission, which can complicate a claim. For example, if an owner alleges a delivery worker ignored a posted warning sign or entered a gated yard uninvited, the case may require stronger evidence. Having a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference when these disputes arise.
Steps Workers Should Take After An Incident
If a delivery worker is bitten, it is important to report the incident immediately to both their employer and local animal control. This documentation helps establish a clear record of what happened. Seeking medical attention should always come first, even if the wound looks small, since untreated bites can lead to serious infection.
Workers should also gather the dog owner’s contact information, note the exact location, and keep a record of any witnesses who saw the attack. Keeping track of medical bills, work absences, and other related costs is also important when pursuing a claim. However, if you are unable to do this because of the stress of the accident, an attorney can help you move forward after you’ve been injured.
Protecting Workers’ Rights
Since 1980, our firm has been serving Connecticut residents, including those injured while working. Delivery workers are a vital part of our communities, and when they are harmed by an avoidable dog attack, the law provides a path to compensation. Still, claims can quickly become contested, making it stressful for workers who are simply trying to heal and get back to work.
With guidance from an attorney, delivery workers can better understand their rights, respond to disputes raised by dog owners, and pursue fair compensation for their injuries. These cases are not just about medical bills but also about protecting the livelihood and security of workers who provide an essential service.
If you or someone you know has been bitten while delivering, the team at Nugent & Bryant is here to discuss your options and help you move forward.
