What Are the Dog Bite Laws in New York?

New York is a mixed state that follows strict liability and one-bite laws in dog bite cases. It’s essential to understand how these laws work in case a dog bites you, and you need to pursue compensation for the injuries.

Experienced Manhattan personal injury lawyers can provide all the legal counsel you need to help you understand what to do if bitten by a dog.

Strict Liability and One Bite Laws in New York

Under the one-bite rule, dog owners are liable for injuries caused by their dogs in cases where they knew the dog would bite someone. On the other hand, strict liability laws only hold dog owners liable for incidents involving dog bites, regardless of whether they knew their dogs could bite someone. The only exception is if the victim provoked the dog.

The law allows dog bite victims to seek compensation from the dog owners for their injuries. The process can be lengthy and complex, so you should work with experienced Manhattan dog bite lawyers to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

What Are the Steps to Take if a Dog Bites Me in Manhattan

Being bitten by a dog can be a scary experience that can leave you confused about the action to take after the injury. However, remember that what you do can make or break your case if you decide to file a lawsuit against the dog owner to pursue compensation for the damages.

Once you’ve been bitten, identify the dog owner and get their name and address. This information is crucial in helping you preserve your right to pursue compensation for the damages. Your doctor can use this information to determine if you require a series of costly vaccination to prevent rabies.

If you feel the injuries are severe, call 911 immediately so that medical assistance is sent your way. Dog bites can be life-threatening and should not be taken lightly, so you should get medical care as soon as possible.

Report to the Local Authorities

Once you get medical attention and treatment for the dog bite, you should report the animal bite to the local authorities, such as the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene or the police department. Ensure you document all the incident details, including any damage to personal property.

It would also help to gather other crucial evidence, such as photos of the injuries, damaged property, or torn clothes. Having a witness statement can also help you build a strong case.

Consult a Skilled Dog Bite Lawyer

Once you collect the medical records and other relevant evidence you can after a dog bite, it’s best to consult a skilled dog bites lawyer in Manhattan. They understand dog bite laws in New York and can assess your case for legal guidance and representation.

They can help you hold the dog owner liable for the injuries you sustained after the dog bite to pursue compensation. A skilled lawyer knows how to help you build a solid case to increase the chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. You will be better positioned to focus on healing and recovery as legal experts handle the case professionally.

What Injuries Caused by Dog Bites Are Eligible for Legal Claims?

Dog bites carry with them some risk of infection, but you’ll be at much greater risk if an unidentified dog bites you. The initial bite is not the only thing to worry about, as you could sustain other potential injuries and infections from the bite. A medical professional can identify them and give you the necessary treatment. Common injuries from dog bites include the following:

Puncture Wounds

Dogs have powerful jaws, and although their bites don’t break the human skin immediately, they can leave big puncture wounds on the bite area. Most dog bite victims often have at least puncture wounds from the dog’s fangs and claws.

Claw or Tooth Wounds

Sharp claws and strong bites can rip clothing and skin, potentially causing severe bleeding and long-term disfigurement or scarring. The scars can be on your face, damaging your ears, nose, eyes, or the delicate skin on the face. You may require plastic surgery to restore your normal appearance, which can be costly.

Your personal injury attorneys in Manhattan can help you collect compensation for these damages.

Broken Bones

Some dog breeds are huge, vicious, and strong and can easily break your bones because of the bite’s strong force. A dog could pounce on you during the attack and make you fall, leaving you with broken bones due to the fall’s impact.

What Compensation Can I Recover for My Dog Bite Injuries?

Once your Manhattan dog bite lawyer helps you build a strong case and prove the dog owner’s liability in court, you may be able to collect compensation for various damages, such as the following:

  • Medical expenses
  • Prescription costs
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Ongoing pain and suffering
  • Reduced quality of life

An Aggressive Dog Bite Attorney Helping You with Your Dog Bite Case

Injuries from dog bites can be life-threatening, and treating them can be costly. Pursuing compensation from the dog owner can help you cater to the medical costs and other living expenses associated with the injuries. Filing a lawsuit can be complicated, so, consider working with skilled dog bite attorneys in Manhattan, NY, to enhance the chances of a favorable outcome.

We have been recognized by The New York Post for our lawsuits involving dog bites.  See https://nypost.com/2023/04/08/nyc-dad-claims-chapin-school-ignored-his-son-after-dog-bite/ 

We have skilled personal injury attorneys at Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices. We can assess your dog bite and other personal injury cases and provide the legal guidance and support you need to pursue compensation. Do not suffer in silence due to someone else’s negligence. Call us at 332-244-1106 to schedule a case assessment.