From scarring to serious infections, dog bites can cause extensive damage to injured victims. Therefore, it is imperative that dog owners control their dogs and make sure they do not cause any injury. When injuries occur because of a dog, the dog owner can be held responsible. Injured victims need to make sure they seek help from a dog bite attorney in Westbury, NY.
Dog Bite Laws in New York
The state of New York is a mixed state. The state has the “one-bite rule”, which means a dog owner will not be held responsible for the first bite, as long as they were not aware of the dog’s propensity for biting. The owner of a dog who has been labeled a “dangerous” will be held strictly liable for the injuries their dog causes. A dangerous dog is one that exhibits the following attributes:
* The dog attacks without any justification
* The dog poses a threat to humans and other animals
* The dog has attacked or killed a human or another animal
When a dog owner allows their dog to bite a person, they can be charged with a misdemeanor. This charge could result in a $1000 fine and up to 90 days in jail. The dog owner can be held liable for any measurable damages that were caused by their dog, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
The state of New York requires a three-year statute of limitations. An injured victim must file a lawsuit before the three-year date of their injury or they forfeit their rights to further seek compensation.
Call for a Consultation
If you have been bitten by a dog and would like legal help, contact a dog bite attorney in Westbury, NY. To learn more about how a lawyer can help, visit online. To schedule a consultation, call the Law Office of Steven R. Smith today. They will help you through the process of getting the fair compensation you are owed.
