Dog Bites

What to Do After a Dog Bite

If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, taking the right steps immediately can help your health and strengthen your legal claim:

1. Seek immediate medical attention — dog bites can cause infections, nerve damage, and serious injury.
2. Identify the dog’s owner — get their name, address, and contact information.
3. Document your injuries — photograph wounds before and after treatment.
4. Report the bite — file a report with local animal control.
5. Gather witness information — note the names and contacts of anyone who saw the attack.
6. Contact an attorney promptly — evidence must be preserved quickly.

New York Dog Bite Law

New York’s Agriculture and Markets Law Article 7 governs dog bite liability. Under this law:

• Dog owners are strictly liable for medical expenses when their dog bites or attacks a person.
• Victims who can prove the owner knew the dog had dangerous propensities may recover additional compensation for pain and suffering and other damages beyond medical expenses.
• Buffalo ordinances require dogs to be licensed and properly controlled at all times.

Who Is Liable

Potential responsible parties in a dog bite case include:

• The dog’s owner
• Landlords or property owners who allowed a known dangerous dog on the premises
• Businesses responsible for animals on their property

Compensation Available

Depending on the circumstances, dog bite victims may recover:

• Medical expenses — past and future treatment, including reconstructive surgery
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and compensation for scarring

New York’s statute of limitations for dog bite claims is three years from the date of injury. Filing earlier is recommended to preserve evidence and witness accounts.