Dogs are everywhere in New York City: in parks, on sidewalks, and often right next door. While most dogs are well-behaved and pose no threat, a bite or attack can happen in an instant. It’s frightening, painful, and can leave you not only with physical wounds but emotional ones too. If you’ve been attacked by a dog in NYC, our firm is here to help. Contact a dedicated Manhattan personal injury lawyer from the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn more about dog attacks and how we can work to fight for the compensation you deserve and need to help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What Should I Do If I’m Attacked By a Dog?
The very first thing you should do after a dog attack is seek medical attention, even if the bite seems minor. Dog bites can cause infections, nerve damage, or scarring, and many injuries worsen without proper care. Rabies is rare, but it’s still a risk worth ruling out. Go to the emergency room, an urgent care clinic, or your primary care physician.
Be sure to tell the medical staff that you were bitten by a dog. This ensures your injuries are properly documented, which will later support your claim if you decide to pursue legal action.
Should I Report the Incident?
Absolutely. After receiving medical care, it’s important to report the dog attack to the appropriate city agency. In NYC, that means contacting the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. They maintain a record of dog bite incidents and can investigate whether the animal has a history of aggression. You should also consider filing a police report, especially if the dog’s owner was negligent or uncooperative.
If you can, gather information at the scene. Get the dog owner’s name and contact details, take photos of the dog and your injuries, and speak with any witnesses. These details may prove crucial if you decide to file a lawsuit.
Can I Sue the Dog’s Owner?
You might be able to, depending on the circumstances. New York follows what’s known as a “mixed” rule in dog bite cases. This means that if a dog has a known history of vicious behavior, the owner can be held strictly liable for medical expenses related to the attack. However, for additional damages such as pain and suffering, you may need to prove negligence. This can include failure to use a leash, allowing a dangerous dog to roam freely, or ignoring prior warnings about the dog’s behavior. Every case is different, and liability can depend on the specifics of the situation, which is why speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney is so important.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, we are here to help. Contact the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny for a free case evaluation today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call (212) 421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a slip & fall lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
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