Long Island Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites can result in serious physical and emotional trauma. In New York, victims of dog bites have the right to seek compensation for their injuries, pain, and suffering in accordance with New York’s complex dog bite laws. As a dedicated New York premises liability personal injury law firm, Jacobson Law is committed to helping injured individuals hold negligent dog owners accountable and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog, it’s important to understand the legal process and your rights under New York law. See below for general information, or contact Long Island dog bite lawyers at Jacobson Law for a free consultation regarding your specific situation.
An Overview of New York Dog Bite Laws
New York follows a “mixed” liability approach when it comes to dog bites, meaning it incorporates elements of both strict liability and negligence. Under New York’s Agriculture and Markets Law, a dog owner can be held strictly liable for the medical costs related to injuries caused by their dog if the dog has a known history of aggression or dangerous behavior. This is often referred to as the “one-bite rule,” although it doesn’t necessarily require a previous bite—any history of dangerous actions may be sufficient to establish liability.
However, for additional damages such as pain and suffering or lost wages, the injured party must prove that the dog owner was negligent. This could involve showing that the owner failed to take reasonable steps to control the dog, such as properly restraining it (fenced yard, on a leash in public) or addressing known aggressive tendencies.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of dog bites in New York may be entitled to several types of compensation, depending on the severity of the injury and the circumstances surrounding the attack. These can include medical expenses coverage for immediate medical treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing care such as physical therapy. Compensation for time missed from work due to recovery from the injury may be a necessary component of the claim as well.
Damages for the emotional distress and physical pain experienced as a result of the bite can play a significant role in holding dog owners accountable. Dog bites are painful and traumatic experiences that can cause long-term or permanent damage. Similarly, many dog bites result in permanent scars or disfigurement, which can have long-lasting psychological impacts as well as functional impairments. For victims who require long-term treatment or counseling, rehabilitation expenses may be recoverable as part of the claim.
Proving Liability in Dog Bite Cases
Establishing liability in a dog bite case often involves demonstrating that the dog’s owner knew or should have known of the animal’s dangerous tendencies. This can be achieved through evidence such as:
- Previous Complaints: If the dog has a documented history of aggressive behavior or has been reported to animal control.
- Witness Statements: Testimony from neighbors or other individuals who witnessed the dog displaying aggression before the attack.
- Lack of Restraint: If the owner failed to properly leash, muzzle, or confine the dog in an area where it posed a danger to others.
A skilled personal injury attorney at Jacobson Law can help gather the necessary evidence to support your claim and present a strong case for compensation.
What to Do If You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog
If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog and suffered injury, it’s crucial to take certain steps to protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, or other complications. Even if the injury appears minor, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional.
- Report the Incident: Contact local authorities or animal control to report the attack. This can help document the incident and establish a record of the dog’s behavior.
- Collect Evidence: If possible, take photographs of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and the dog involved. Also, gather contact information for any witnesses.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Jacobson Law: Your Advocate in New York Dog Bite Cases
At Jacobson Law, we understand the physical and emotional toll a dog bite can take. Our dedicated legal team has extensive experience representing personal injury victims in New York and is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. We approach each case with care, compassion, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.
Dog bite injuries can result in significant medical expenses, missed time from work, and ongoing pain. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Jacobson Law is here to help guide you through the process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court, ensuring that your case is handled with the attention it deserves.
Contact Jacobson Law Today
If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury, time is of the essence. Contact Long Island dog bite attorneys at Jacobson Law at 631-661-2030 for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options. Our firm is dedicated to helping injury victims in New York receive the compensation they need to recover and move forward with their lives.
