Case study of a successful compensation claim against a dog’s owner.
Personal injury lawyer Elizabeth Duncan recently settled a compensation claim against a dog’s owner for a five-figure sum after her client was bitten while exercising in her local park.
Elizabeth’s client, referred to here for confidentiality reasons simply as L, was doing her usual exercise in the park when she passed a dog being walked by its owner. As she passed the dog and owner and all seemed well, but the dog then suddenly whipped around and bit L’s arm.
L was understandably very shocked. She suffered puncture wounds to her arm as well as grazes on her abdomen from the dog jumping up at her. The injuries and shock had a significant impact on L’s life for months afterwards.
L reached out to us to discuss her options. Elizabeth was of the opinion that she had a strong claim for compensation and agreed to act for her on a No Win, No Fee basis.
A letter of claim was sent to the dog’s owner. Elizabeth argued that the dog’s owner had been negligent for the following reasons:
- failing to properly control and secure the dog;
- neglecting to supervise or monitor the dog’s behaviour; and
- failing to take reasonable care as regards to L’s safety.
Elizabeth also alleged liability under the Animals Act.
Happily the dog owner’s insurance company responded promptly with an admission of liability. This meant all that needed to be established was how much compensation L should receive.
Elizabeth gathered medical evidence as well as information about the support and treatment she had required. After a period of negotiation a five-figure out of court settlement was agreed.
How we can help you claim compensation against a dog’s owner
Our personal injury department has in-depth, nationally recognised expertise in animal related claims. If you have been injured by an animal contact us today for a free, no-obligation discussion about your options and details of No Win, No Fee funding.