Manhattan Dog Bite Lawyers: Protecting New York Residents

Experienced Legal Support for Dog Bite Victims in New York

Dogs have long been considered man’s best friend, and are unanimously agreed upon as some of the most loyal, loving, and sociable pets. Although the majority of dogs are friendly and approachable, some are not.

When a dog attacks or bites a person, it can lead to a variety of severe injuries. In addition, a dog bite is also an incredibly traumatizing experience that can leave victims emotionally scarred for the rest of their lives.

If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, you may be entitled to recover damages for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, medical treatment, psychological distress, lost wages, and additional financial hardship.

Understanding the Risks: Dog Attacks in New York

Over four million people are killed or seriously injured in a dog bite attack every year. Bites can lead to a variety of painful and long-lasting injures that often require medical attention, hospitalization, or surgery.

This includes:

• Permanent scarring
• Disfigurement
• Broken or fractured bones
• Infections or disease
• Puncture wounds
• Deep cuts or lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Rabies
• Death

Know Your Rights: New York's Dog Bite Legislation

All dog bite victims in New York are protected by law. New York has a “one bite rule” which states that if a dog is not considered dangerous and does not have a propensity to attack, then the dog owner will not be held liable for damages for a first attack.

However, if the owner acted negligently and failed to restrain or control the dog, then he or she will still be held liable for the injury, even if it was a first attack.

The “one bite rule” does not apply if the dog is considered dangerous or to have a propensity to attack. If the victim can prove that the dog has a dangerous nature, or that the dog owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous nature, then the victim will be entitled to damages.

Settling Your Dog Bite Claim: Timelines and Expectations

Just like other personal injury claims, a dog bite claim may take only a few months to settle, or it could take significantly longer depending on how severe your injuries are. If the attack resulted in severe injuries, it may be prudent to wait until you have received treatment and reached maximum medical improvement before seeking compensation for your medical expenses.

This ensures that you aren't awarded too little in your settlement and left empty-handed if unforseen medical expenses pop up.

Get the Help You Need: Our Manhattan Dog Bite Legal Team

If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, the most important thing you should do is seek immediate medical attention. A doctor can treat your injuries and ensure that your condition does not worsen.

Once you have received medical attention, the next step is to contact a dog bite attorney in Manhattan who has extensive experience handling cases of this nature. At Loscalzo & Loscalzo, P.C., we have the resources and skills to competently and effectively represent you in court.