Queens Dog Bite Lawyers

How Common are Dog Bites in Queens?

In the United States, around 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year. Almost 800,000 of those bites require medical attention. Between 2015 and 2017, New York City had a dog bite rate of 119.6 bites per 100,000 people. Children are more likely to be bitten than adults. Around 42% of dog bites treated in the emergency room involve children under 14. Younger children between ages five and nine have the highest rates of being bitten by a dog. They are also more likely to be bitten on their face and neck.

Dog bites can also be an occupational hazard. Almost 8% of dog bites reported in the U.S. are considered to be work-related. Some jobs come with a higher risk. These include mail carriers, those who deliver food, vet workers, and service providers.

Are Owners Liable for Dog Bites in Queens?

Some states follow a “one bite rule,” which may only hold owners liable for dog bite injuries if the animal is known to be dangerous. Generally, this would mean that the owner may not be held liable if this is a dog’s first-time biting someone. Other states do not observe a one-bite rule and strictly hold the dog’s owner liable.

New York has what is called a mixed dog bite statute. This means that dog owners are held strictly liable for medical bills when a dog that is considered dangerous bites someone.

However, some circumstances potentially allow a victim to receive additional damages. You must be able to prove that the owner knew their dog was dangerous due to a history of violent behavior. You also need evidence that the owner did not maintain control of the animal, causing the attack.

When is a Dog Considered Dangerous?

A dangerous dog is defined as one that has killed, injured, or attacked a person, farm animal, or pet without justification. It can also include a dog that behaves in a manner that causes someone to believe that the dog poses an unjustified and serious risk of causing harm.

Is it Possible to Recover More Than Medical Expenses?

It can be difficult to prove not only that a dog is dangerous, but that its owner knew it was dangerous. Therefore, it is important to hire an experienced attorney who can thoroughly investigate your case. They can gather witness testimony, complaints made to animal control, and find evidence proving the dog has shown vicious behavior in the past.

In New York, some circumstances could protect the dog’s owner from liability. A dog’s owner may not be liable for a dog bite if:

• The dog was being abused, taunted, or threatened by the person injured
• The dog was protecting its owner, home, or puppies
• The dog was reacting to pain or injury
• The dog was protecting the property from a person trespassing or committing a crime

While the dog’s owner may be financially liable for any injuries their animal caused, it’s possible others involved in the case may share fault. This could include a dog sitter, dog walker, landlord, or property owner.

What Types of Compensation Can a Victim of a Dog Bite Receive?

It is necessary to show that the dog who attacked you was dangerous or that the owner was negligent to recover more than medical expenses.

If it is proven that the dog’s owner was negligent, you may be able to seek damages for:

• Medical bills, including treatments needed in the future
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring
• Disfigurement

When to Hire Queens Dog Bite Lawyers

A dog bite injury goes beyond the initial attack. An attorney can provide support and legal guidance throughout your case. They can also calculate the full extent of damages suffered and take your case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t reached. You may be left with long-term physical and emotional trauma that could affect your quality of life and future well-being. Don’t let an insurance company minimize the severity of your injuries. Seek help from a qualified attorney to get the compensation you deserve.