And tell us when you would like us to call you back for a no obligation and professional chat before you claim
Alternatively Call Us On 0
We're here to help and can guarantee complete confidence.
It used to be said that “a dog is allowed one bite”. That old idea was very close to the law in relation to attacks by animals such as dogs. Each dog was allowed one bite before it’s owner became liable to anyone else that was bitten. Now the Animals Act 1971 governs liability for attacks by dogs and other animals. It’s a complicated area of the law and specialist advice is essential at an early stage from your solicitor. But it’s not only fierce dogs that can cause problems – the escape of animals from what should have been closed off fields can also cause situations where injuries can occur. In all cases your solicitor will advise you on the likelihood of an insurance company being available to meet your claim for compensation.
Incidents involving animals are unfortunately quite common, ranging from simple dog bites, to a kick from a horse or deer running in front of a car.
Particularly here, the law recognises that the innocent should be compensated.
Whilst it might help your case to prove that the animal owner or keeper is to blame for injury, it is not necessary.
If an animal has caused an injury by just behaving normally, then usually the keeper is liable. Only if the injured person was ‘wholly’ at fault, will his claim fail.
Dog bite injuries involving children and couriers are one of the most common claims solicitors are asked to advise on. Dogs are territorial or may feel intimidated when approached. If they bite, they are probably behaving normally and their keepers liable to pay compensation.
The Animals Act 1971 recognises this and provides for compensation to be paid without any great investigation into ‘blame’. There does not need to be any council or police involvement in the case for the compensation claim to succeed. The Occupiers Liability Act 1957 can also be helpful here.
Horses can cause very significant injury. Do get advice if you have been injured by a horse.
We might ask what you know about the animal. Had behaved in the way that caused the injury previously? What is known about it’s temperament? Who was looking after it? Were there any witnesses?
Most animal owners and keepers are insured for such eventualities, whether they be householders, farmers or otherwise working the animal.
If the owner of the animal is not known or the animal is wild, there may be problems however.
If you consider that you have a potential claim for compensation arising as a result of an animal, then do not hesitate to contact us for free legal advice.