Son attacked my pit bull, compensation?

[funkypigeon]

Earlier this year my 5 year old was badly injured on his arm and stomach by a pit bull breed dog. The police are dealing with it now and I'm waiting to hear what's going to happen. It's been a long process to find the owners.

Does anyone know how I would go about claiming compensation for this?

A personal injury lawyer?

Is your son OK now?

Best to contact a PI solicitor with particular interest with claims under the Animals Act. Be warned unless the owners have pet insurance (or insurance policy which will indemnify them) you may struggle to get compensation. You also may find solicitors may not willing to take on case (as they won't get paid). If there has been a criminal conviction you may be able to seek compensation from the CICA, but a PI solicitor can advise you more on this. Most PI solicitors still work under CFAs ("no win no fee arrangements") so you lose nothing contacting some solicitors to gauge their views and see if they will take on. The claim would be your child but brought by a litigation friend (responsible adult).

You'll need the police report confirming the dog's owner, and details of their household contents insurer as that would cover any claim you make. You can still claim against the owner if they don't have insurance, but if they have no assets, it'll be difficult to get any compenation. You can check your own household insurance for legal expenses cover as this might get you legal representation. Take lots of photos of the injuries, at various stages through recovery/healing, and keep a record of how your son is feeling (if affected by anxiety etc.).

You will need to demonstrate that they failed to adequately supervise/control the dog, and are therefore liable for the injuries. Write down how the incident happened so you have a fresh, clear recollection if you ever need to refer to it when asked.