Understanding Dog Bite Claims at Work
Dog bites can happen in a surprising number of work environments. We have acted for clients in roles such as:
- Postal and parcel delivery staff; Royal Mail, Amazon, DPD, Evri
- Social workers, health visitors and carers; often entering private homes
- Utility workers and engineers; accessing gardens or meter areas
- Builders, decorators and contractors; working on-site or indoors
- Estate agents, letting agents and housing officers; conducting viewings or inspections
- Vets and dog groomers; even in animal-care settings, negligence can arise
In many of these roles, contact with dogs is unavoidable. What matters is whether proper steps were taken to reduce the risk and whether the owner or employer failed in their duty.
Employers have a legal duty to ensure the safety of their employees under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This includes protecting workers from potential hazards, such as dog attacks.
Start Your Claim Today
If you have been bitten by a dog whilst at work, do not suffer in silence. You may be entitled to compensation, and we are here to help you get it.
Contact our dog bite claim experts today for a free consultation.
For a review and assessment of your dog bite claim get in touch with us today – call 0113 224 7851 or email [email protected]. We also offer a free call back service.
When Is a Dog Bite at Work Grounds for a Claim?
You may be entitled to claim compensation if the bite or attack happened during the course of your duties and someone else, whether an individual, business or organisation, failed to take reasonable steps to protect your safety.
This could include situations where:
- You visited a property as part of your job and the dog was unrestrained or aggressive.
- The owner failed to warn you about the dog’s presence or behaviour.
- Your employer did not carry out appropriate risk assessments or provide guidance on managing known risks.
- You were required to enter areas where dogs were likely to be roaming unsupervised.
Legal Framework for Dog Bite Claims
In the UK, dog owners and handlers are legally responsible for controlling their animals. Under the Animals Act 1971 and the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, owners can be held liable if their dog causes injury to another person. If a dog bite occurs at work, the employer’s liability insurance may cover the compensation claim.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite at Work
If you are bitten by a dog while working, it’s essential to:
- Seek Medical Attention: Visit a healthcare professional immediately to assess and treat your injuries.
- Report the Incident: Inform your employer and ensure the incident is recorded in the workplace accident book.
- Gather Evidence: Collect information about the dog and its owner, take photographs of your injuries, and obtain contact details of any witnesses.
- Contact a Solicitor: Seek legal advice from a solicitor experienced in dog bite claims to discuss your case and potential compensation.
What You Can Claim
We would look to recover the following heads of loss:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for treatment, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Loss of Earnings: Income lost due to time off work during recovery.
- All other losses and expenses associated with and resulting from the incident.
- Compensation for physical and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Consideration for any lasting impact on your quality of life or ability to work.
The amount of compensation awarded depends on the severity of the injury and the impact it has on your life.
Time Limits for Making a Claim
In the UK, you generally have three years from the date of the incident to make a personal injury claim. If the victim is under 18, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday. It’s advisable to initiate the claim process as soon as possible to ensure evidence is fresh and readily available.
Why Choose Ison Harrison Solicitors?
We are a specialist firm dealing exclusively with dog bite claims across England and Wales. Unlike generalist solicitors, our knowledge is focused and up to date. We understand how dog bite law interacts with workplace safety regulations, employer liability, and personal injury law.
With us, you benefit from:
- A No Win, No Fee service; no financial risk to you
- Speed and clarity: your case will be dealt with efficiently and transparently
- Specialist insight into both dog ownership law and employer duties
- Supportive, personalised care; we understand the stress of workplace injuries
Contact Us
If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury at work, don’t hesitate to seek the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact Claim for Dog Bite today for a free, no-obligation consultation – call us on 0113 224 7851 or email [email protected].
Our experienced solicitors are here to support you every step of the way.
Dog Bite Claims
The most common claim types that we handle for our clients
Claim type not listed? Get in touch for a free assessment of your dog bite injury claim.
Mike Massen, a partner in the dog bite injury team at Ison Harrison Solicitors.
