How to prevent dog bites in New York
For a nation that loves their best friends so much, the sad truth is that they can sometimes
James Alexander Law
Dog Bite Lawyers
DOG BITE Lawyers for all of New York
Dogs and other pets provide love and companionship for people of all ages, but it can be easy to forget that even the best-behaved dogs bite in certain circumstances. Although many dog bites are minor, in some cases victims suffer life-altering injuries. At James Alexander Law, our dog bite attorneys have a proven record of success in recovering compensation for clients throughout New York. We help you understand New York dog bite law and how it may apply in your case.
Dog Bite Law in New York
New York law employs a strict liability approach when it comes to dog bites. This means that dog owners are strictly liable for damages when the dog had “prior vicious propensities”, meaning that the dog acted aggressively before this attack. For example, if the dog had bitten someone before or had aggressively chased or threatened people or other animals before the attack. It also must be established that the owner or landlord knew or should have known about the dog’s prior vicious propensities. The injured party does not have to prove the dog owner was negligent.
The types of damages that may be recovered vary according to the specific circumstances. If the dog owner or their landlord is liable, they will be held responsible for medical bills, lost earnings, pain, suffering, and disfigurement.
If a dog is deemed dangerous, the local town court may hold a dangerous dog hearing and may put the dog down. New York law defines a dangerous dog as a dog that has:
- Attacked, injured, or killed another domesticated animal or person without provocation
- Previously acted in a manner in which a reasonable person would believe the dog posed a risk of causing injury or death
Recovering Damages in Dog Bite Cases
Victims of dog bites can sustain very serious injuries such as broken or crushed bones, soft tissue injuries, cuts and lacerations, nerve damage, scarring or disfigurement, and more. In most personal injury claims, there are two types of damages that may be available: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are tangible losses like the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.
It’s more challenging to put a number on non-economic damages, as there is no set dollar amount for what they are worth. Our local, dedicated dog bite attorneys understand how to accurately calculate all types of damages and work to help you recover the maximum amount of compensation you deserve. These damages may include:
Past and future medical bills
- Past and future wage loss
- Diminished earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of consortium and companionship
If you’ve lost a loved one in a dog attack, our personal injury lawyers may be able to help you pursue damages in a wrongful death claim.
Why Choose Our NY Dog Bite Attorneys?
Our team at James Alexander Law knows how devastating a dog attack can be, especially when the injured victim is a child. We investigate the facts of your case, handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies, and provide the competent, compassionate legal support you need to get through challenging times.
Schedule A Consultation With A Dog Bite Lawyer In New York
If you or someone you love is dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions of being injured by a dog or another animal, James Alexander Law can help. Contact us online or call 1-800-529-1333 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer. For more than 39 years, our dog bite attorneys have served clients in Central New York, Syracuse, Rochester, and the Southern Tier and North Country areas.
You Don’t Pay Our Dog Bite Injury Lawyers… Unless We Win Your Case!
SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
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TOP 6 THINGS TO DO IF YOU'VE BEEN BITE BY A DOG INJURY
In 2019, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occurred in the United States and nearly 1 out of 5 bites became infected. In the previous year, 27,000 people had to have reconstructive surgery because of a dog bite.
Medical Attention
First thing to do in documenting a Dog Bite Injury is to seek medical attention depending on the severity of the injury.
Contact Information
Make sure you get the name and contact information of the dog owner. This is important incase you need to get the medical and vaccine records of the dog.
Injury Report
Report your injury to the police and request a copy of the report. Obtaining a police report is very important for the insurance company.
Snap a Pic
Take photographs of your injuries, of the dog and the location where the injury happened.
No Fault
We recommend that you do not accept any settlement or admit fault with the owner’s insurance company.
Evidence
Because the severity of a dog bite can vary along with the need of medical attention, do your best to save any clothing damaged by the dog.
James Alexander Law PRACTICE AREAS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I sue if I was bitten by someone else’s dog?
Yes, in New York, dog owners can be held liable if their dog causes injury, especially if they knew the dog was dangerous.
What if the dog owner claims I provoked the attack?
If proven, it may impact your compensation, but each case is unique, and legal counsel can help determine liability.
What damages can I recover in a dog bite case?
You may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and reconstructive surgery costs.
