There are over 52,000,000 dogs in the United States alone, and around one-third of all households have at least one dog as a pet. Although dogs are considered man’s best friend, the fact is that thousands of people are attacked by dogs every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 800,000 people are bitten by a dog annually, and around 334,000 of those injuries are severe enough to require hospital treatment. At The Law Offices of Justin D. Brandel in New York, our team of legal professionals understands the seriousness of dog bites and zealously advocates for our clients injured in dog bite attacks. Call the office or contact us today to schedule a consultation with a trusted New York dog bite lawyer.
The injuries caused by dog bite attacks can be particularly devastating given the age of the victim and the location of the bite. Bites that occur on the head, face, and neck typically cause far more severe damage and can result in permanent disfigurement, disability, and the need for additional care. Some of the most common injuries caused by dog bite attacks include the following:
If you or someone you know has been injured in a dog bite attack, it is critical that you speak with an experienced dog bite lawyer right away to learn more about your rights and begin the process of securing compensation for your injuries.
The liability of a dog owner for their pet’s attack on another person is determined by whether the animal qualifies as a “dangerous dog” under New York law. State code dictates that the owner of a dangerous dog is liable for any injuries caused to another person, their livestock, or their companion animal. In order for a dog to qualify as dangerous, it must be shown that the animal did one of the following:
Once a dog has been deemed dangerous, an owner is held strictly liable for all injuries caused by a dog bite attack. If the dangerous dog caused additional damage, such as property loss, the victim must also show that the dog owner was negligent.
Compensation for dog bite injuries includes all costs stemming from attack injuries. This includes all medical bills such as hospitalization, treatment, surgery, medication, and transportation costs. It also includes compensation for future rehabilitation, therapy, medical devices, and additional care. Noneconomic damages for a dog bite attack may also include compensation for emotional distress, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
If the injured victim can prove negligence in the dog bite attack, they can additionally be compensated for any property damage that was caused in the incident. This may be damage to real estate, such as a broken fence or window, or to personal property like a cell phone or clothing. It is important that an injury victim disclose all losses associated with an attack to their attorney.
Given the intricacies of dog bite law in New York, hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer is a victim’s best chance at securing compensation after an attack. Your attorney can navigate the legal process while you focus on what is most important, recovering from your injuries. An attorney will conduct their own investigation into the case, collect evidence, and interview witnesses for statements. Your lawyer will make the best possible arguments for your case in court and hold pet owners responsible when they fail to keep their dogs from attacking others. Talk to a dog bite lawyer today to learn more.
Dog bite attacks can be devastating incidents to victims of all ages, but particularly to the young and the elderly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite attack in the New York area, call or contact The Law Offices of Justin D. Brandel, P.C. today to schedule a case consultation.
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