Despite being widely regarded as devoted companions, it’s important to remember that dogs can still exhibit aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, every year, thousands of people are bitten by canines, causing lasting physical and emotional injuries. When an attack is severe, it can leave you facing a whirlwind of pain, as these unpredictable incidents can lead to infections, disfigurement, as well as psychological distress, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). That said, if you have suffered a dog bite wound, you may be entitled to significant compensation for the damages you have endured. Please continue reading to learn more about New York’s dog bite laws and why connecting with a trusted Bronx Dog Bite Lawyer is in your best interest.
What Are New York’s Dog Bite Laws?
New York is one of the few states that follow a “mixed” dog bite law, combining the one-bite rule with a limited degree of the strict liability rule. The one-bite rule essentially lets the dog owner off the hook if the dog causes harm for the first time. In this case, the owner would not be responsible if they were unaware of the dog’s ability to cause harm. However, the strict liability rule stipulates that an owner needs to shoulder the responsibility for all harm caused by the dog, regardless of whether they knew the dog had a history of biting or aggression, also referred to as having a known propensity for violence.
What Damages Can Victims Seek?
Nevertheless, there are exceptions to when a dog owner can be held liable for their dog’s actions. For instance, if the dog owner can prove that you contributed to the attack by teasing or tormenting the dog or trespassing, you may not have a valid claim. If an unprovoked dog attacks you, you can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages refer to tangible losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, property damages, etc. These damages are easily calculable, representing out-of-pocket expenses associated with your injuries. In contrast, non-economic damages are much more difficult to quantify as they refer to subjective losses. This may include emotional anguish, disfigurement, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.
If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, please don’t hesitate to contact a determined Bronx dog bite lawyer, who can help you fight for the compensation and justice you deserve. At James Newman, P.C., we are prepared to represent your interests. It’s essential to keep in mind the sooner you take action, the sooner you can get started fighting for the compensation you need to help get your life back on track. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.
