Understanding animal and dog bite claims
Dangerous animals can be the perpetrators of bites and attacks, leaving people seriously injured as a result. Dog bites and dog attacks are, unfortunately, commonly the subject of public liability claims. The Companion Animals Regulation 2018 legislation recognises that a dog owner is liable for any loss or damage suffered as a result of a dog attack perpetrated by their dog, or a dog that ordinarily resides on their property.
Contacting a personal injury lawyer as soon as is practical after a dog attack is highly recommended. Personal injury claims can be brought to cover the cost of future medical treatment, compensation for pain and suffering, economic loss and legal costs. Brydens Lawyers are experienced in dog bite compensation claims and can offer you expert advice and assistance. If you, or someone you know, has been bitten or attacked by a dog, do not hesitate to call us on 1800 848 848 or contact us online to arrange a meeting and discuss your case.
What counts as an animal attack
In New South Wales, the Companion Animals Act 1998 (NSW) makes pet owners legally liable for any injury, loss or damage caused by their animal, regardless of whether it has shown dangerous tendencies in the past. You do not need to prove the owner knew the animal was dangerous. This is known as strict liability, and it significantly strengthens your position as a claimant.
Under the Act, an ‘attack’ is broadly defined. A claim involves more than biting; it also applies where they:
Rushes at, chases, or harasses you
Knocks you over while running at you
Causes you to fall or suffer injury while attempting to escape it
Attacks or injures another animal in your presence, causing you psychological harm
This means that even if you were not physically bitten, you may still have a valid dog attack claim in NSW. Claims can be made against several parties depending on the circumstances, including the registered owner of the dog, any person who was in charge of the dog at the time of the attack, and, in some cases, the owner of the property where the dog was ordinarily kept.
Are you eligible to make a dog attack claim?
You may be entitled to compensation if any of the following apply:
You were attacked or injured by an animal on public or private property.
An animal rushed at, chased, or knocked you over, causing injury, even without a bite.
You suffered psychological harm, including PTSD, anxiety, or a phobia as a result of the incident.
Your child was bitten or attacked (children have until age 21 to lodge a claim).
You were injured attempting to protect another person or animal from an attack.
A family member died as a result of an animal attack.
You can claim compensation for any injury caused by any animal or pet, including dogs, cats, horses, and cattle, among others.
You do not have to have provoked the animal, nor do you have to prove the owner knew the animal was dangerous. The law and our dog bite lawyers are on your side.
What compensation can you claim after an animal attack?
Our dog bite compensation lawyers can help you recover damages for:
Non-economic loss or damages for pain and suffering;
Past and future medical expenses (if applicable);
Past and future economic loss or wage loss (if applicable);
Loss of superannuation benefits commensurate with past economic loss and future economic loss (if applicable);
The value of gratuitous costs or the cost of commercial assistance or care provided for the past and the future;
Home and/or motor vehicle modifications necessitated by the injuries;
An allowance for legal costs.
Children and dog attacks: What parents need to know
Minors under 10 account for the highest rate of dog bite hospitalisations in Australia. Young children are particularly vulnerable to facial injuries due to their height, and they often suffer both physical scarring and lasting psychological trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and phobias that can affect their development for years.
If your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog, you can make a compensation claim on their behalf as a parent or guardian. Importantly, under NSW law, if the injured person was under 18 at the time of the attack, the 3-year limitation period does not begin until they turn 18, which means your child has until their 21st birthday to lodge a claim. Even if the attack happened years ago and you did not act at the time, it may not be too late. Contact our dog attack lawyers for a free* consultation to assess your child's entitlements.
Make a Claim TodayHow to start a dog attack claim
The steps you take in the hours and days after a dog attack can significantly affect the strength of your compensation claim. If you or someone you know has been attacked, here is what to do:
Step 1: Seek medical attention immediately
Dog bites carry a serious risk of infection. Even if the wound appears minor, see a doctor or go to your nearest emergency department as soon as possible. Your medical records will form a critical part of your claim.
Step 2: Report the accident to your local council and police
Dog attacks should be reported to your local council and the police as soon as possible. Council rangers and the police can investigate, take statements, and create an official record of the incident. This report can be valuable evidence in your dog attack claim.
Step 3: Collect the owner’s details
If safe to do so, obtain the dog owner’s name, address, and contact details. If the owner is unknown, note a description of the dog, its breed, colour, and size, and the address or location where it was kept.
Step 4: Document your injuries and the scene
Photograph your injuries as soon as possible after the attack and again as they evolve over the following days. Take photos of the location, any broken fencing or gates, and any damage to your clothing or belongings. Identify any witnesses and record their details.
Step 5: Keep a record of your symptoms and losses
Note down how your injuries have affected your daily life, including pain levels, sleep disruption, time off work, and any anxiety or emotional distress. Keep receipts for all medical expenses, travel to appointments, and any other costs related to your injuries.
Step 6: Contact a dog bite compensation lawyer
Contact Brydens Lawyers as soon as possible. The sooner you engage a dog bite lawyer, the sooner we can begin gathering evidence and protecting your claim. There is no cost to find out where you stand; your initial consultation is free*, and we work on a No Win, No Fee* basis. (*Conditions apply).
Why Brydens Lawyers are the right representation for you?
With over 50 years of experience, Brydens Lawyers are the experts in securing the maximum amount of common law damages to which you are entitled to for injuries sustained as a result of an animal attack.
50+ years winning dog attack claims in NSW
Our dog attack compensation lawyers have been fighting for thousands of local residents for over five decades. We know how insurers approach dog-attack claims and how to counter them.
We handle all the evidence from day one
From the moment you engage us, we get to work. We gather police reports, council records, witness statements, medical reports, and any other evidence needed to build the strongest possible case on your behalf.
No Win, No Fee* — you pay nothing unless we win
Brydens Lawyers has operated on a No-Win, No-Fee* basis for over 50 years. If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be invoiced for our professional time. (*Conditions apply).
Free* consultations
We offer free*, initial consultations at our legal centres across Sydney, Regional NSW and Canberra, as well as by phone or Zoom. Get answers to your most pressing questions and find out whether you have a case.
We speak your language
Our team includes lawyers fluent in Arabic, Cantonese, and more. We can discuss your dog bite claim in the language you are most comfortable in, so you always know where you stand.
Don’t wait; Strict time limits apply
In NSW, you generally have 3 years from the date of the attack to commence legal proceedings for a dog bite or animal attack claim. If you miss this deadline, you may permanently lose your right to compensation.
Even if you think your time may have run out, do not assume; contact Brydens Lawyers and let our dog bite lawyers assess your situation. Extensions can be granted in exceptional circumstances.\
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