New York Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
A dog attack can leave more than physical wounds—it can cause lasting emotional trauma, permanent scars, and mounting medical bills. Whether you were bitten while walking in Central Park, visiting a friend in Brooklyn, or working on a delivery route in Queens, you deserve to know your rights under New York law. Our NYC dog bite lawyers help victims hold negligent owners accountable and pursue the compensation needed to recover.
Understanding New York Dog Bite Laws
New York’s dog bite laws are a mix of strict liability and negligence:
Strict Liability for Medical Costs
If a dog has a history of dangerous behavior, the owner is strictly responsible for your medical bills after a bite or attack.
Negligence Claims for Additional Damages
Even if the dog had no known vicious history, you may still recover damages for pain, lost income, and emotional distress if the owner acted carelessly—such as letting the dog roam unleashed or failing to control it.
Many of these claims are paid through
homeowners’ or renters’ insurance, meaning you can seek compensation without directly targeting a friend, neighbor, or relative’s personal assets.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks
Dog bites and animal attacks can result in serious harm, including:
- Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
- Nerve damage or crushed tissue
- Facial injuries that require reconstructive surgery
- Infections like rabies or tetanus
- Post-traumatic stress and lasting fear of dogs
We work with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries—both physical and emotional—so we can pursue maximum compensation.
Proving Owner Liability
Our legal team investigates every detail of your case, including:
- Past bite reports or complaints about the dog
- Witness statements from neighbors or bystanders
- Leash law violations under NYC or county ordinances
- Veterinary and animal control records
Whether your case involves a known aggressive breed or a dog with no prior incidents, we build a strong claim based on the facts and applicable law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still sue if the dog never bit anyone before?
Yes. While strict liability covers medical costs for known dangerous dogs, negligence claims may allow you to recover for other damages, even without a prior bite history.
What if I know the dog’s owner personally?
Most dog bite claims are paid through insurance, not the owner’s personal funds. This allows you to pursue compensation without jeopardizing personal relationships.
Is there a time limit to file?
In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, but acting sooner makes it easier to gather strong evidence.
Let's Talk
Talk to a NYC Dog Bite Attorney Today
Whether the attack happened on a busy Manhattan street, in a Brooklyn brownstone, or at a Long Island home, our attorneys have the experience to navigate New York’s complex dog bite laws. We fight for compensation to cover your medical treatment, lost wages, and the long-term effects of the attack. Consultations are free, and you pay nothing unless we win.
