If you have a dog bite case, should you consult with a New York injury lawyer? Absolutely. Without a seasoned professional, you may have an extremely difficult time proving liability on the part of the dog’s owner. With hundreds of thousands of dog bites and attacks occurring in the U.S. each year, the injuries are often life-changing.
In the state of New York, it can be tough to hold a dog owner or anyone who harbors a dog liable for injuries a victim suffers due to a dog bite or attack. It must be proven that the owner or person who harbors a dog either knew or should have known that the dog had a vicious propensity. If the dog has bitten someone before that would be evidence that the dog in question has a tendency to bite or attack. If you are the victim of a dog bite, the first step you should take after seeking medical attention for your injuries is to consult with an experienced New York injury attorney.
Dog bite injuries often occur to the face, which can result in permanent or disfiguring scars. Dog bites occur most often in children younger than 10 years old, and the experience can be traumatic. In addition, most of these bites/attacks take place on the property of the dog owner.
these two breeds are responsible in
about 70% of dog bite cases
While Rottweilers and pit bulls are widely known for having aggressive tendencies, the state of New York does not adhere to the theory that some breeds are naturally more vicious than other breeds – even though in dog bite incidents that prove to be fatal, these two breeds are responsible in about 70% of those cases. Therefore, the breed of dog that bit you makes no difference; it must still be proven that the dog had a tendency or propensity to be vicious, and that the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s vicious tendencies. For example, if a dog often growls or bares its teeth at others, the owner should know the dog could potentially be vicious or bite someone.
However, the first time a dog has bitten someone it can be difficult to prove the owner is liable. This means that in many cases, the owner’s insurance carrier may deny your claim. However, if your New York dog bite lawyer can work to prove the dog owner is liable, you may recover compensation including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages and costs related to your injury.
How can a personal injury lawyer on Long Island or anywhere in New York prove the owner’s liability? Most homeowners are not going to freely admit their dog has a propensity for vicious behavior, so it can be tough. However, experienced injury attorneys know what steps to take to prosecute such cases.