Animal-Related Personal Injury Claims

Animal-related injuries can have serious consequences, from physical harm to emotional distress.

If you or a family member have been attacked by an animal or suffered an injury due to an animal’s behaviour, you may be entitled to compensation under the Animals Act 1971.

The Act distinguishes between dangerous and non-dangerous animals, but the standard of proof required is higher when the animal causing the injury is classed as non-dangerous.

The Act outlines the legal responsibilities of animal owners and keepers, and it can be complex to understand.  Some key points are:

• Strict liability for dangerous animals: For certain dangerous animals (as defined by law), the owner is strictly liable for any damage they cause, meantime they can be held responsible even if they took reasonable precautions.
• Liability for non-dangerous animals: Even if the animal is not classified as dangerous, the owner can still be liable if they knew about the animal’s aggressive tendencies or if the injury was a foreseeable consequence of their negligence (eg. Failing to keep the animal properly contained).
• Defences: Certain defences are available to animal owners, such as if the injured person was trespassing or provoked the animal.

It is important that you establish the owner or keeper of the animal if you wish to bring a claim for an animal attack.

Most claims under the Act are from domestic animals, usually dogs.  It is the owner or keeper of the animal who is liable for the damage.

Most dog owners will have adequate cover in place through their home or pet insurance.

You can claim for physical injuries, damage to property including clothing, cost of care and treatment and lost income from not being able to go to work.

It may be possible for you to claim compensation for an animal attack through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, but only in specific circumstances.  The CICA is a government-funded scheme that compensates victims of violent crime and animal attacks can be considered violent crime in certain situations.

At Gorvins Solicitors, our expert personal injury team is here to help you make a claim and seek justice.

What is an Animal-Related Personal Injury Claim?

These claims arise when an individual suffers an injury due to an animal, including:

• Dog bites or attacks
• Horse riding accidents
• Injuries caused by livestock or farm animals
• Exotic pet attacks
• Unprovoked attacks in public or private places

Who Can Make a Claim?

You may be eligible for compensation if:

• You have suffered an injury due to an animal attack within the last three years
• The animal owner was negligent in controlling their pet or the animal was dangerously out of control
• The incident was reported to the appropriate authorities
• You have sustained physical or psychological harm

How We Can Help

Our experienced solicitors will:

• Assess your case and determine eligibility
• Assist with gathering necessary evidence, including medical reports and witness statements
• Negotiate with insurers or responsible parties
• Represent you in court if required

No Win, No Fee

We believe in making justice accessible, which is why we offer a No Win, No Fee service. You won’t pay unless your claim is successful.

Get in Touch

If you or a loved one has suffered an animal-related injury, contact Gorvins Solicitors today for expert legal guidance. We are here to support you every step of the way:

• Contact form
• Email: enquiries@gorvins.com
• Telephone: 0161 930 5151