Dog Bites in NYC: Understanding New York Dog Bite Laws and Your Rights

Dogs are often referred to as our best friends, and rightly so, as they offer unfailing loyalty and companionship. However, when irresponsible owners neglect to train or control their dogs, they can become a danger to the public and cause horrific injuries.

When the worst has happened, and you or a loved one has experienced a dog attack, understanding NYC dog bite laws is essential for getting justice. Read on to discover vital New York laws dealing with dog bites and how an NYC dog bite lawyer can give you the best chance of recovering compensation.

New York Dog Bite Laws – What You Need to Know

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), from 2011 to 2021, a staggering 468 people died from being bitten or struck by a dog in the United States. That’s an average of 43 deaths per year.

However, not all involved in a dog attack suffer fatal injuries. In many more cases, injuries from dog bites can range from minor to moderate but still impact your daily life in unforeseen ways. The good news is that the law is on your side, and New York’s dog bite laws can help you recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track.

New York Dog Bite Laws

New York’s dog bite laws, as laid out in Agriculture and Markets Law §123, are designed to protect victims while holding irresponsible owners accountable for the actions of their pets. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Strict Liability. New York’s strict liability rule makes dog owners automatically responsible for any injury their dog causes.
2. One Bite Rule. The “one bite rule” somewhat contradicts New York’s strict liability law, as an owner is typically let off the hook for a first biting incident. In other words, if a dog has never shown aggression before, it can be tricky to hold the owner liable.
3. Negligence. Dog owners can also be held liable if they are negligent in controlling their dogs. For example, if a dog owner knew their dog had aggressive tendencies but failed to keep it leashed in public, and the dog injured you, you could hold the owner liable.

Since New York dog bite laws are somewhat complex and confusing, it’s always best to consult a dog attack attorney in New York if you’re affected. They can assess your case, clarify your rights, and move forward with a compensation claim.

Protecting Your Rights as a Dog Bite Victim in NYC

Seeking legal help for a dog bite injury in NYC is perhaps the most important step to protect your rights if you or a loved one suffered significant injuries. Here’s a rundown of the vital steps you can take immediately to protect your health and assert your rights:

• Seek Medical Attention. Even minor dog bites can lead to serious infections and other complications if left untreated. See a medical provider as soon as possible and keep a record of your treatments and expenses.
• Report the Dog Attack. Report the incident to New York City Health, animal control, or the police department within 24 hours. A report creates an official record of the attack, which can be crucial for your legal case. Don’t forget to note all the important details, such as the place, time, and witness statements.
• Contact a NYC Dog Bite Lawyer. An experienced New York dog attack attorney can be an essential ally when someone else’s dog hurts you. They can walk you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work tirelessly to obtain maximum compensation for your damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.

When to File Your Dog Bite Lawsuit in NYC

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury, including dog bite lawsuits, is three years from the date of the incident and injury. This means you generally must file your lawsuit within three years or risk losing the right to pursue compensation.

However, there are some rare exceptions to this rule, such as cases involving minors, where the statute of limitations may be extended until the victim reaches the age of majority.

Seeking legal help for a dog bite injury in NYC can be vital, as an attorney can determine the best timing for your lawsuit and ensure you’re not missing any critical filing deadlines.

Maximizing Compensation with Legal Help for Dog Bite Injury in NYC

Every dog bite case is unique, and compensation will depend on the circumstances of your case, including the severity of injuries and your dog attack-related costs. Seeking legal help as soon as possible after the incident can maximize your compensation.

In general, dog bite victims in NYC could be entitled to the following awards and more:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of life quality

If you cannot reach a fair settlement with the dog owner or their insurance company, our dog attack attorneys in New York can help. We can negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and file a lawsuit to pursue justice in court if necessary.

How to Choose the Right NYC Dog Bite Lawyer for Your Case

Suffering a dog bite injury in New York City is a frightening and distressing experience, and getting adequate compensation can be an uphill struggle. However, you don’t have to go it alone. Choosing your attorney wisely can increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Here are key qualities to look for in an attorney:

• Experienced in Dog Bite Cases. Ask your prospective attorney if they have handled dog bite claims before and what their success rate with such cases is. New York dog bite laws are complex, involving specific statutes and precedents, which makes working with an experienced attorney essential for the success of your case.
• Stellar Reputation and Reviews. Don’t risk hiring an attorney who doesn’t get results. Research their reputation through client testimonials and reviews. Receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews from clients points to an attorney’s professionalism and high success rate.
• Communication and Empathy. Dealing with a dog bite injury can be physically and emotionally taxing. An empathetic lawyer who listens and communicates clearly (and often) can make the legal process less overwhelming.

Our NYC Dog Attack Attorneys Fight for Your Rights

At Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C., we know that dog bites not only cause painful injuries and emotional scars but can also leave your finances in disarray. We are here to help you get your life and finances back on track. Our NYC dog bite lawyers bring their expertise and dedication to every dog bite case they handle.

We have a proven track record of securing significant settlements for our injured clients. But, aside from helping you recover what you need, we want to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so you can heal and recover while we handle your case.

If you or a loved one was injured by a dog in NYC, don’t face the legal battle alone. Contact Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C. today to schedule a free consultation.