Angela M. Bulkley vs. Bradley M. Luedtke, et al

Case Background

On April 18, 2023, Plaintiff Angela M. Bulkley filed a Dog Bite lawsuit in the Connecticut State, Superior Court of Judicial District (Case number:  FBT-CV23-6123283-S). Judge John Riley presided over the case.

Cause

On April 24, 2021, Angela M. Bulkley (Plaintiff) visited the home of Bradley M. Luedtke and Kathryn Luedtke (Defendants) at 216 Church Hill Road, Trumbull, Connecticut, as a social invitee. During her visit, while going to use the bathroom, Plaintiff was unexpectedly and viciously attacked by two dogs owned and/or kept by the Defendants. Plaintiff was lawfully present on the premises and did not engage in any behavior that could have provoked the dogs, such as trespassing, teasing, or abusing them. The incident resulted in severe physical and emotional injuries.

Injuries

As a result of the attack, Ms. Bulkley sustained extensive injuries, including painful bites and puncture wounds on her left and right legs, thighs, knees, hip areas, and right ear. These injuries caused permanent scarring, tissue loss, and disfigurement, leading to significant physical and mental suffering. Her injuries required immediate and ongoing medical treatment, including surgery, diagnostic imaging, prescription medication, and emergency room care. Additionally, Plaintiff anticipated future medical treatments and expenses as part of her recovery.

Damages

Following the attack, Plaintiff experienced considerable pain and suffering, both mentally and physically. She incurred substantial medical expenses and will likely continue to incur further costs for ongoing treatments and therapy. Additionally, Plaintiff missed work due to her injuries and expects that she may miss additional workdays in the future. Her ability to enjoy daily life, social activities, and recreation has also been impaired due to the physical and emotional trauma caused by the attack.  This premises liability lawsuit sought compensation for her medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the impact on her quality of life.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Angela M. Bulkley
    • Counsel for Plaintiff: James A. Mahar
  • Defendant(s):Bradley M. Luedtke | Kathryn Luedtke
    • Counsel for Defendants: Joesph R. Grippe

 Claims

Plaintiff held the Defendants liable for her injuries, damages, and losses based on Connecticut General Statutes §22-357, which addresses liability for damages caused by animal attacks in a Dog Bite lawsuit.

Defense

The Defendants, Bradley and Kathryn Luedtke, responded to the allegations by partially admitting and partially denying the Plaintiff’s claims. They acknowledged that Angela M. Bulkley was on her way to use the bathroom when their dogs bit her. However, they claimed insufficient knowledge regarding the specific injuries she allegedly sustained, including the areas of her body affected, her pain and suffering, and the extent of her medical treatment and expenses. For several other allegations, including claims related to her emotional suffering, lost wages, and decreased quality of life, the Defendants denied sufficient knowledge or information to confirm or refute these claims, thereby leaving the Plaintiff responsible for providing proof.

Expert Testimony

Dr. Vasquez, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, testified on the nature and severity of Angela M. Bulkley’s injuries from the dog bite incident on April 24, 2021. He detailed the injuries to her ear and thighs, described the symptoms commonly resulting from such trauma, and explained the specific symptoms, limitations, and restrictions that Plaintiff endured. He further noted that she may continue to experience some of these effects in the future.

Jury Verdict

On October 24, 2024, the jury found in favor of Plaintiff, Angela M. Bulkley, in her case against Defendants, Bradley M. Luedtke and Kathryn Luedtke. They awarded her a total of $235,000 in noneconomic damages in a Dog Bite lawsuit.

Court Documents:

Complaint

Answer

Jury Verdict