Written by The Barnes Firm, reviewed by Richard Barnes
Rich Barnes
President
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States each year, and nearly one in five of those bites require medical attention. Dog bite injuries can cause physical harm, emotional trauma, and financial burdens for victims.
Our team of personal injury attorneys at The Barnes Firm understand the physical and emotional trauma that a dog bite can cause. If you or someone you love has been a victim of a dog bite in the Buffalo area, it’s wise to seek legal representation from an experienced Buffalo dog bite lawyer. With our extensive knowledge of New York State’s dog bite laws and over 100 years of combined legal experience, our team of Buffalo dog bite lawyers will work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you get the best result possible while recovering from your injuries. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE consultation.
At The Barnes Firm, we have a proven track record of success in handling dog bite cases and are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to our clients. Our team of experienced attorneys understands the complexities of dog and animal attacks and are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process while providing you with the support you need during this difficult time.
When you choose The Barnes Firm, our team will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence to support your claim, and build a strong case on your behalf. We will negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved in your case to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation possible. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Buffalo dog bite lawyers.
In New York State, dog bite laws combine the one-bite rule with limited strict liability. Under the one-bite rule in New York State, dog owners are generally not liable for dog bite injuries if they had no reason to believe that their dog was vicious or aggressive. However, if the owner knew or reasonably should have known that their dog intended to bite or had attacked or bitten someone before, they can be liable under the “dangerous dog” provisions in New York.
If a dog has been previously identified as “dangerous,” New York imposes strict liability on the dog owner, who is strictly liable for the victim’s medical and veterinary expenses resulting from the dog’s subsequent attack. However, for other damages, such as pain and suffering or lost wages, the victim must prove that the dog had a dangerous propensity that the owner knew or should have known about, and that the owner had a duty to handle the dog and failed to do this which resulted in injuries to the victim.
Dog attacks can be complex cases and it’s crucial to have an experienced dog bite lawyer on your side to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. At The Barnes Firm, our team of Buffalo dog bite attorneys have a thorough understanding of New York’s dog bite laws and will use this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf. Call us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE initial consultation.
Dog bites can result in a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to serious, life-altering injuries. Our team of Buffalo dog bite attorneys at The Barnes Firm have found the most common injuries resulting from dog bites include:
It’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a dog bite to prevent infection and ensure that any injuries are properly treated. After visiting a medical professional, call The Barnes Firm at (800) 800-0000 and ask to speak with one of our experienced dog bite attorneys. From the first conversation, through to the final settlement, our attorneys will work hard for you every step of the way.
If you or someone you know has been attacked by a dog, it’s important to take immediate action to protect yourself and preserve your legal rights. Here are a few steps you should take following an animal attack:
If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages. These can include:
At The Barnes Firm, our experienced Buffalo dog bite lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 to schedule a free consultation.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in Buffalo or a surrounding suburb, it’s important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At The Barnes Firm, our team of experienced dog bite lawyers can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
To learn more about how we can help you with your dog bite case, contact us today at (800) 800-0000 to speak with one of our experienced Buffalo dog bite lawyers. We are here to help you every step of the way and help you get the best result possible.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, construction accident, or have suffered another type of personal injury contact our team today.
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Most people have never needed a lawyer when they find themselves injured and in need of legal advice. We hear the following questions from many of our clients. We hope the answers help clarify your options and considerations.
If you’re attacked by a dog while making a delivery, your priority should be seeking medical attention for your injuries. Even minor bites can lead to infections or other complications. It’s crucial to document the incident by reporting it to your employer and contacting local authorities, including animal control. This helps establish a record of the attack and the dog’s behavior, which can be essential if you pursue legal action for compensation.
Read More: What Delivery Drivers Need to Know About Dog Bite Liability
In New York, suing a dog owner after an attack does not automatically result in the dog being put down. The outcome of such cases depends on factors such as the severity of the injuries, the dog’s history of aggression, and whether the owner was negligent in controlling the dog. Courts may order various measures, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, rather than euthanizing the dog.
Immediately after being bitten by a dog, seek medical treatment without delay. Document the incident by identifying the dog and its owner if possible. This information is crucial for medical treatment purposes and for any potential legal claims you may pursue to recover damages.
A dog’s lack of prior aggression can influence liability in a dog bite case in Buffalo. If the dog has no history of biting or aggressive behavior, it may mitigate the owner’s liability to some extent. However, the victim’s conduct at the time of the incident and whether they provoked the dog are also critical factors considered by the courts.
In New York, you can pursue legal action if a dog attacks your pet, service animal, or livestock. You may be entitled to compensation for veterinary bills, emotional distress, and other damages resulting from the attack. Consult with a dog bite lawyer to understand your rights and the legal options available to you.
As a parent of a child bitten by a dog, seek immediate medical attention for your child. Even minor bites can have serious consequences, especially for children. Report the incident to local authorities and gather information about the dog and its owner. Consulting with a dog bite lawyer specializing in child injuries can help you protect your child’s rights and seek compensation for medical expenses and emotional trauma.
Read More: Top Reasons Why Kids are at Greater Risk of Dog Attacks
To obtain compensation after being attacked by someone’s dog in New York, you can file a personal injury claim against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or pursue a civil lawsuit. A dog bite lawyer can assess your case, gather evidence such as medical records and witness statements, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Common injuries from dog attacks in New York include puncture wounds, lacerations, nerve damage, fractures, and infections. Facial injuries are particularly common, especially in children who are at eye level with dogs during an attack. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for proper treatment and documentation of injuries, which is essential for any legal claims you may pursue.
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