NYC’s Dog Bite Laws and Leash Regulations
Not every dog will bite someone, but there’s a chance they may attack, especially if they feel threatened. In New York City, dog owners are held accountable for any injuries caused by their pets, especially if the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past. If a dog attacks without justification or provocation, the owner can be sued for damages, including property damage and pain and suffering.
Under NYC leash laws, dog owners must ensure their pets are restrained at all times when in public. Failure to comply can result in legal consequences if the dog injures someone.
At Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., we recognize the severity of dog attacks, particularly when NYC leash laws. Our experienced dog bite lawyers are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. With decades of experience and a track record of successful outcomes, we’re here to advocate for you. Let us help you recover from the aftermath of a dog bite incident.
NYC Dog Bite Injuries
In New York City, where bustling streets and crowded neighborhoods intersect with pet ownership, the risk of dog-related injuries is a serious concern. Dog bite injuries can be devastating, often extending beyond the initial wound and resulting in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens.
Physical Trauma
Dog bites can cause various types of physical trauma, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations and puncture wounds. In some cases, the force of the bite can lead to broken bones and crush injuries, particularly in vulnerable areas such as the hands, arms, or face.
Infections
Dog bites are highly prone to infection due to the bacteria present in a dog’s mouth. If not promptly and properly treated, these infections can lead to serious complications, including cellulitis, sepsis, and even life-threatening conditions such as rabies or tetanus.
Brain Injuries & Concussion
Severe dog bites can also result in traumatic brain injuries and concussions, particularly if the victim is knocked down or struck by the force of the attack. These injuries can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall quality of life.
Soft Tissue Damage
Beyond the immediate wound, dog bites can cause extensive damage to the soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This can result in long-term pain, limited mobility, and the need for rehabilitative therapy or surgical intervention.
Scarring & Disfigurement
Depending on the severity of the bite and the location on the body, dog attacks can leave permanent scars, amputation, and disfigurement. Facial injuries, in particular, can have profound psychological and social implications, affecting a victim’s self-esteem and quality of life.
Emotional Trauma
In addition to physical injuries, dog bites often result in significant emotional trauma, especially for children and vulnerable individuals. The experience of being attacked by a dog can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and a lasting fear of dogs or public spaces.
Secondary Complications
Complications such as nerve damage, loss of sensation, and chronic pain can arise from dog bite injuries, impacting the victim’s overall health and well-being. In severe cases, secondary complications may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Fatal Dog Bites
In the most tragic cases, dog bite injuries can result in wrongful death. If a dog attack leads to fatal injuries, the surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their loss, including funeral expenses, lost income, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.
Liability for New York Dog Bite Injuries
New York dog bite liability involves establishing either the dog owner’s negligence or a violation of dog-related laws, with strict liability often applying. For instance, New York City’s leash law states that a person cannot take their dog into a public space or unfenced area without a leash or chain shorter than six feet long. A dog owner ignoring laws like this one could be found negligent and liable for damages their dog causes.
Potentially liable parties for a dog attack include:
Dog Owners
Primarily responsible for the dog’s actions, especially if aware of its vicious tendencies.
Dog Walkers
Responsible if negligent in controlling the dog or aware of its dangerous behavior.
Landlords/Property Owners
Liable if aware of a tenant’s dangerous dog and fails to take reasonable precautions.
Dog Caretakers
Anyone entrusted with the dog’s care or control is accountable if negligent in preventing an incident. This can include groomers, pet sitters, etc.
Strict Liability vs Negligence
Strict liability holds dog owners accountable regardless of their knowledge, while negligence requires demonstrating a failure to exercise reasonable care. Understanding these legal principles is crucial when seeking compensation for dog bite injuries.
How to Prove a Dog Was Dangerous
This can involve showing that the dog exhibited vicious tendencies and that the owner was aware of these behaviors. A dog may be considered dangerous if it has a history of attacks or displays aggressive behaviors like jumping on visitors. If the dog’s actions result in injury, the owner could be held liable for damages.
