More than 4.7 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs each year, and one in six requires medical treatment for their injuries. The physical and emotional trauma following a dog attack can be devastating. A dog attack can cause serious injuries that may require costly plastic surgeries, physical therapy and additional ongoing medical treatment, especially when the victim is a child. Dog bite cases can be complex. It is vital to seek the counsel of an experienced dog bite attorney who can help you understand your rights and ensure that you or your loved one receives the medical treatment and compensation you deserve.
Injuries Often Caused by Dog Bites
Many people underestimate the severity of dog bites. Unfortunately, dog bites can result in serious injuries, particularly when children are involved. Each year, over 325,000 individuals visit emergency rooms nationwide after being bitten by dogs. Around 10,000 of these victims require hospitalization due to the severity of their injuries. Dog bite victims can experience various types of injuries, including:
- Cuts and lacerations, particularly on the face, neck, and head
- Fractured bones
- Soft tissue damage, such as strains, sprains, and bruises
- Head trauma
- Crushing injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Paralysis
- Fatalities
Does New York Follow a “One Dog Bite” Rule?
New Yok does not adhere strictly to a “one dog bite” rule; it uses a combination of the one-bite rule and strict liability. Dog owners are strictly liable for medical costs stemming from their dog’s attack. However, they are only liable for additional damages if they knew or should have known about their dog’s previous aggressive behavior. Dog bite victims can hold the dog owner strictly liable for medical expenses but must prove the dog’s past aggression to claim other damages.
If a dog owner was negligent in managing the dog, the victim might claim additional damages. For instance, if a dog owner neglected to repair a broken fence and the dog escaped and bit someone, the victim could seek additional damages even if the dog had no history of aggression.
What Are “Vicious Propensities”?
Under New York law, a dog owner can be held strictly liable if they knew or should have known that their dog had “vicious propensities.” Demonstrating that the attacking dog had such propensities can significantly strengthen your case. You won’t need to prove the owner’s negligence to receive compensation if you can show the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Owners are strictly liable for all damages if their dog is proven to have vicious propensities. Evidence of a dog’s vicious propensity can include:
- The dog fighting with other animals
- The dog frequently baring its teeth or growling
- The owner using a muzzle when taking the dog outside
- Previous complaints about the dog’s aggressive behavior
Leash Laws in New York
New York State does not have a statewide leash law, but local municipalities have their own regulations. For example, Syracuse requires dogs to be on a leash in public areas. If a dog owner violates a local leash law and the dog bites someone, this can support the victim’s case by demonstrating the owner’s failure to follow local regulations.
Compensation Through a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you might wonder about the value of your case. Under New York law, you can hold a dog owner strictly liable for medical expenses related to the dog bite. The owner can be held accountable regardless of the dog’s history of aggression.
Maintaining records of your medical expenses is crucial for estimating your total medical costs. If the dog had shown previous aggression, you might be entitled to additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, including compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Disability
- Plastic or corrective surgery
- Reduced earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Embarrassment
Maximizing Your Settlement or Verdict
Depending on your case’s specifics, you might file an insurance claim or need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. If filing an insurance claim, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. At Stanley Law Offices, our mission is to maximize settlements or verdicts for our clients. Our attorneys have built strong relationships with top personal injury experts in New York.
We will thoroughly investigate your dog bite case, utilizing insights from medical and financial experts. After understanding your claim’s total value and the long-term impact of your injuries, we will estimate your case’s worth. We will then negotiate with the defendant or insurance company to secure full compensation for your past, present, and future damages.
Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit in New York
Filing a lawsuit after a dog bite can be daunting, especially while recovering from a serious attack. However, it’s crucial to act quickly to secure your right to compensation. In New York State, you have three years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. Depending on your case, you may have more or less time. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer promptly can help ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Contact Our Syracuse Dog Bite Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured by a dog bite or animal attack, our attorneys can help. Contact Stanley Law Offices today for a FREE case evaluation!
