Getting bitten by a dog can be a scary and painful experience, often leading to serious injuries and emotional trauma. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog on Long Island, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps to take to get the compensation you deserve. New York State has specific laws for dog bite cases, and knowing these laws can help you make a strong claim. At Trantolo & Trantolo Law Firm, we are here to help dog bite victims get the justice and compensation they need.
What You Need to Know About New York’s Dog Bite Laws
In New York, dog owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog. This is called strict liability. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner can be held accountable, even if their dog has never shown aggressive behavior before. However, there are a few exceptions.
To win a case, the victim must show that the dog had a history of being aggressive or that the owner did not take proper steps to prevent the bite. This is important when the bite could have been avoided with better care or control. Victims can also argue that they did not provoke the dog in any way and that the owner was careless in allowing the attack to happen.
It’s important to show that the dog was dangerous or the owner failed to control the dog in order to win a dog bite case.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
If a dog bites you, there are some important steps to take right away. These steps can help you recover physically while also strengthening your case for compensation:
- Get Medical Help Right Away: No matter how small or large the bite looks, see a doctor. A doctor will check your wound and give you any treatment you need, such as a tetanus shot or antibiotics. This also creates a record of your injuries, which will be important for your claim.
- Report the Bite to Authorities: Report the dog bite to the local authorities. This helps create an official record of the event and can show if the dog has a history of biting people. Having a police or animal control report is valuable evidence for your case.
- Gather Evidence: Take pictures of your injuries, the dog, and the scene of the bite. Also, write down anything you can remember about the incident, including details about the dog and any people who were there to witness the bite. This information can be helpful for your claim.
- Don’t Admit Fault or Apologize: After being bitten, avoid saying anything like “I’m sorry” or admitting that you did something wrong. Even if the dog seemed friendly, it’s important not to take responsibility for the attack. Let your lawyer handle any conversations with the dog owner or insurance companies.
Types of Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
If you file a dog bite claim, you can seek compensation for different types of losses. The goal is to make sure that you are adequately compensated for your injuries and other damages. Here’s a look at the most common types of damages you can claim:
- Medical Costs: This includes everything you need for your treatment, such as doctor visits, surgery, and any follow-up care.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensation covers the physical pain and emotional distress you went through because of the dog bite. It helps make up for the suffering you experienced.
- Lost Wages: If the injury prevents you from working, you can seek compensation for the time you missed at work or any future time you will need to take off to recover.
- Scarring and Permanent Damage: If the bite leaves permanent scars or changes your appearance, you can be compensated for the emotional and physical impact.
- Emotional Distress: Sometimes dog bites can cause anxiety, fear, and other emotional problems. You can seek compensation for the mental toll the attack has taken on you.
Why You Need a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Case
If a dog has bitten you, it’s crucial to meet with an experienced personal injury lawyer. A lawyer will explain your legal options, gather evidence, and work with the insurance company to make sure you get fair compensation.
Dog bite cases can sometimes be more complicated than you’d think, especially if the dog owner doesn’t want to take responsibility or if there are disagreements about the dog’s behavior. A local attorney with experience with dog bite cases can help you build the strongest case and make sure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
Get Help Now and Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer
If you’ve been bitten by a dog on Long Island, take action right away. The law lets you seek compensation for your injuries, but the sooner you start the process, the better. Speak to a lawyer who can help you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
