Rochester Dog Bite Lawyers

Rochester Dog Bite Lawyers

New York ranks among the top states for where the most dog bites occur each year. Dog bites can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial distress for victims, and leave them in need of help.

At The Barnes Firm, we understand how traumatizing dog bite injuries can be, for both the victim and others involved in the accident. Our team of experienced Rochester dog bite lawyers specializes in advocating for the rights of dog bite victims and holding negligent parties responsible. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog or animal bite, contact The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

Should I Hire an Attorney After a Dog Bite?

Dog bites can leave an individual with serious injuries and wondering what they should do next. If you or a loved one have been injured by a dog bite, it is important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to represent you. With over 100 years of combined personal injury law experience, our team of Rochester dog bite attorneys at The Barnes Firm are dedicated to helping our clients get the best result possible. When you choose The Barnes Firm, you can be assured our attorneys will:

• Investigate the circumstances of your accident
• Gather evidence to support your claim
• Determine and hold all negligent parties responsible
• Prepare, and take your case to trial if necessary

Contact The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE consultation. Our attorneys will answer any questions you have regarding your accident and review your legal options with you.

Dog Bite Laws in New York State

In the state of New York, dog bite laws incorporate a combination of the one-bite rule along with limited strict liability. According to the one-bite rule in New York, dog owners are typically not held responsible for injuries caused by their dogs if they had no prior knowledge of their dog’s aggressive or vicious behavior. However, if the owner was aware, or should have been aware, that their dog had a propensity to bite, or had previously attacked or bitten someone, they can be held liable under the “dangerous dog” provisions in New York.

In instances where a dog has been previously designated as “dangerous,” New York enforces strict liability on the owner, meaning they are fully responsible for the victim’s medical and veterinary expenses resulting from subsequent dog attacks. However, when it comes to other damages such as pain and suffering or lost wages, the victim must demonstrate that the dog had a dangerous tendency, which the owner knew or should have known about, and that the owner had a duty to control the dog but failed to do so, resulting in harm to the victim.

Dog attack cases can complex due to New York’s dog bite laws. At The Barnes Firm, our team of Rochester dog bite attorneys possess a comprehensive understanding of New York’s dog bite laws, allowing us to construct a strong case on your behalf. We are committed to fighting for your rights and providing you with the legal representation you deserve.

What is the Statute of Limitations on a Dog Bite in NY?

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a dog bite is typically three years from the date of the incident. It is crucial to act quickly and seek legal representation as soon as possible following a dog bite incident. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to gather evidence and build a strong case. At The Barnes Firm, our experienced team of Rochester dog bite lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal system and help you get the best result possible. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 for a free consultation.

Who is Most Likely to be Bitten by a Dog?

Dogs can attack and bite anyone at any time, but certain individuals are more likely to be bitten than others. Some factors that can influence the likelihood of being bitten by a dog include:

• Children. Young children have limited understanding of a dog’s behavior and may not understand how their behavior can provoke a dog. Their smaller size and unpredictable movements can trigger a dog to bite as well.
• Postal and Delivery Workers. Individuals who encounter dogs on the job everyday are at increased risk of dog bites.
• Elderly Individuals. Older adults with difficulties in mobility, decreased physical strength, and decreased reaction time can limit their ability to fend off a dog.
• Strangers or Unfamiliar Individuals. Dogs can be very protective of their territory and may see a stranger or unfamiliar individual as a threat, leading to a higher risk of them being bitten by a dog.
• Dog Owners. Dog bites may occur within the household due to inadequate training, provocation, or mishandling.

If you or a loved one were injured in a Rochester dog attack, contact The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

Why Do Rochester Dog Bites Happen?

A dog’s behavior can be influenced by a variety of factors including breed, socialization, and training, causing dog bites to happen at any time. Some of the most common factors that lead to dog bites include:

• Negligent pet ownership. When pet owners fail to take responsibility for their aggressive or dangerous dogs, it increases the risk of dog bites and incidents.
• Provoking a dog. Engaging in behaviors such as teasing, taunting, charging, or harassing can trigger aggressive responses and potentially lead to a dog bite.
• Unauthorized entry onto private property. Entering someone’s property without permission can provoke a protective response from the dog, increasing the likelihood of a bite.
• Dogs roaming unrestrained or off-leash. When dogs are allowed to roam freely without proper restraint or supervision, they may approach unfamiliar individuals or become involved in territorial disputes, resulting in bites.
• Disturbing a dog during mealtime. Interrupting or bothering a dog while it is eating can cause it to become defensive, as dogs are often protective of their food and may react aggressively if they feel threatened.
• Interacting with unfamiliar dogs. Petting or approaching an unfamiliar dog without caution or proper introduction increases the risk of a bite, as the dog may perceive the interaction as a threat or be uncomfortable with unfamiliar individuals.

What Injuries Can Result from a Dog Bite?

Dog bites can result in a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to serious and life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries that can result from a dog bite include:

• Puncture wounds
• Broken bones
• Infections
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional trauma
• And more…

If you or a loved one have been injured in a dog bite attack, it is important to seek medical attention right away and to contact an experienced Rochester dog bite attorney. At The Barnes Firm, we understand the physical and emotional toll that dog bites can have on victims and are committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

What do I do if I was Attacked by a Dog in Rochester?

If you find yourself the victim of a dog attack in Rochester, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect yourself and seek appropriate medical attention. If you have been bitten by a dog, it is important to:

• Report the attack to law enforcement and animal control.
• Gather information from the accident scene, including the dog owner’s name, phone number, address, and insurance information.
• If anyone witnessed the attack, collect their personal information and statement on the accident.
• Take photos and videos of the scene of the attack and your injuries.
• Obtain medical attention and have your injuries properly documented and diagnosed.
• Consult with an experienced Rochester dog bite lawyer at The Barnes Firm.

Each dog bite case is unique and it’s important to consult with a personal injury attorney to assess your accident and protect your rights. Call The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case review.

What Types of Compensation Can Individuals Attacked by Dogs Receive?

Individuals who have been attacked by dogs may be eligible to receive compensation for the injuries and damages they have suffered, which may include:

• Medical bills and expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Future lost earnings
• Property damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional distress

Our Dog Bite Attorneys Are Here to Help

If you or someone you care about has suffered a dog bite in Rochester, or surrounding suburbs, it is crucial to seek legal representations as soon as possible. At The Barnes Firm, our team of skilled dog bite attorneys are ready to guide you through the legal procedures and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about how we can best support you with your dog bite case, reach out to us at (800) 800-0000 to have a conversation with one of our experienced Rochester dog bite lawyers. We are dedicated to assisting you at every stage of the process and striving for the most favorable outcome possible for your situation.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Nichole W.

The Barnes Firm was very friendly, always quick to respond to our calls, emails. When we had any questions or concerns they were there to walk us through everything. Would definitely recommend them to anyone that is looking for an attorney that will honestly fight for you and has your best interest in mind.