While most dogs are friendly and nonviolent, even seemingly harmless pets can attack when scared or provoked. Dog attacks can leave victims with severe wounds, emotional trauma, and costly medical bills.
On Long Island, pet owners can be held financially responsible for injuries if their dog attacks someone. Understanding local laws and knowing what to do after a dog bite incident can help victims seek the compensation they deserve.
Long Island Dog Bite Laws
Under New York State law, you may sue a dog’s owner if their dog injures you, regardless of whether the dog has a prior history of aggression. However, this only covers medical expenses and veterinary bills for injured pets. To recover compensation for additional damages such as lost wages, pain and suffering, or emotional distress, you must prove the dog’s owner knew or should have known their pet was dangerous and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause severe injuries, including:
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Puncture wounds and deep lacerations
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Nerve damage
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Facial injuries and scarring
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Fractures and broken bones
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Infections, including rabies and tetanus
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Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
If you have suffered injuries due to a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help determine liability and assist in seeking financial recovery for your injuries.
Liability in Long Island Dog Attacks
Dog bite laws in New York can be complex, with different standards for holding pet owners accountable depending on the situation. Pet owners are strictly liable for medical bills if their dog is classified as "dangerous." A dog is deemed dangerous under New York law if it:
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Attacks a person or another pet without justification, causing injury or death
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Behaves in a manner that a reasonable person would believe poses a serious threat
To recover compensation beyond medical bills—such as for lost wages or emotional suffering—you must prove that the dog’s owner acted negligently by failing to prevent the attack. This might include allowing a known dangerous dog to roam freely, failing to leash a pet in public, or ignoring prior complaints about aggressive behavior.
What To Do After a Dog Bite on Long Island
If you are bitten by a dog, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
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Seek Medical Attention – Even minor bites can become infected. Get checked by a doctor immediately.
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Identify the Dog and Its Owner – Obtain the owner's contact information and any vaccination records.
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Document the Incident – Take photos of your injuries and the location where the attack occurred.
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Report the Bite – Notify your local animal control agency or police department to create an official record.
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Gather Witness Statements – If anyone saw the attack, collect their names and contact details.
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Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – An attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Compensation Available After a Long Island Dog Attack
If a dangerous dog has bitten you and its owner was negligent, you may be eligible for compensation, including:
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Medical bills (current and future expenses)
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Lost wages due to missed work
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Permanent scarring and disfigurement
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Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Protecting Your Rights After a Dog Bite
Dog bite incidents can have serious consequences, but victims have legal options. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack on Long Island, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact a qualified Long Island personal injury lawyer today at Finz & Finz for a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
