What if a Dog Bite Victim Is a Friend or Neighbor of the Dog’s Owner?
Dog bites can cause serious injuries that require significant compensation to make up for the harm inflicted by another’s vicious animal or if the pet was handled negligently by its owner. But what happens when the victim is someone close to the dog’s owner, such as a friend or neighbor? In New York, dog bite cases are governed by specific legal rules that can become more complex when a personal relationship is involved.
Below we discuss how New York law addresses dog bite liability and what options are available for recovering compensation when the victim is a friend or neighbor of the owner. If you or a family member is dealing with injuries from a dog bite in Orange County or the Hudson Valley, contact Dupée & Monroe, P.C., to discuss your options with a skilled and knowledgeable Goshen dog bite attorney.
Understanding New York Dog Bite Law
New York law generally follows a “one-bite rule” for dog bite cases. This approach can hold dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their pets if the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past or if the owner was aware of the dog’s tendency to bite or act viciously. However, if the dog has no history of aggressive behavior, liability can become more difficult to prove. In those instances, the victim must often prove the dog owner is liable by acting negligently in the dog’s control or management.
In cases where a victim and dog owner have a close relationship, such as friends or neighbors, understanding the nuances of liability under New York law can be essential. Victims are often hesitant to pursue legal action against someone they know personally, but in severe cases, a claim may be necessary to cover medical bills, lost income, and other damages resulting from the attack.
Victims of dog bites often face substantial medical costs, especially if injuries are severe, leading to stitches, surgeries, or long-term therapy. Injured parties in dog bite cases may be entitled to compensation for various losses, including:
- Medical Bills: Costs for emergency care, hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and follow-up appointments.
- Lost Wages: If the injuries prevent the victim from working while recovering or if the injury is disabling, they may be entitled to compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the attack.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation required after the injury.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim Against a Friend or Neighbor
Many victims feel uncomfortable pursuing legal action against friends or neighbors. However, dog bite injuries can result in significant expenses, and it’s often the case that insurance coverage can cover these costs without directly affecting the owner. New York homeowners’ insurance policies frequently cover liability for dog bite injuries, allowing victims to receive necessary compensation without imposing a direct financial burden on the dog owner.
It’s important to remember that insurance exists for a reason. Whether the owner has a homeowner’s or renter’s policy or umbrella liability coverage, that policy is meant to cover situations exactly like this. Whether it becomes necessary to file an insurance claim or even a lawsuit to get adequate compensation, the cost should be borne by the insurer and not the dog’s owner. A dog’s owner likely feels terrible if their dog bites someone and they are responsible, and they probably feel even worse when the victim is a friend or neighbor. They are probably even more motivated to ensure the victim is treated fairly and will not stand in the way or have hurt feelings if a claim is filed against them.
When the dog’s owner is a friend or neighbor, victims may worry about damaging the relationship. However, a dog bite injury can have long-lasting consequences, and covering medical expenses and other costs may be necessary. By filing a claim with the owner’s insurance, victims may be able to recover costs without causing financial hardship for the dog owner. An attorney can provide guidance on how to handle the case delicately, aiming to minimize any strain on personal relationships.
How an Attorney Can Help
Dog bite cases, especially those involving friends or neighbors, require a no-nonsense yet sensitive approach. An experienced personal injury attorney can assess liability, evaluating the dog’s history and behavior to determine if a claim can be pursued under New York law. Lawyers can communicate with insurance providers and negotiate compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages, often without having to involve friends or neighbors directly in any conflict. With a personal injury lawyer’s support, victims can focus on recovery while ensuring their rights are protected.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prompt medical care is crucial for preventing infection, getting appropriate treatment, and documenting the injury. Medical records will serve as evidence in any potential legal claim.
- Report the Incident: Report the dog bite to local animal control authorities. This documentation is essential for establishing an official record of the incident.
- Collect Evidence: Take photos of the injuries, gather witness statements, and document any details about the dog’s behavior leading up to the bite.
- Consult an Attorney: A personal injury attorney can help determine whether a dog bite claim is warranted and assist in negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
Contact Dupée & Monroe for Help After a Dog Bite in Orange County or the Hudson Valley
If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog owned by a friend or neighbor in Orange County or the Hudson Valley, contact Dupée & Monroe, P.C. in Goshen at 845-294-8900 for a no-cost, confidential consultation. Pursuing a claim can feel unduly stressful and complicated, but consulting a personal injury attorney can help clarify your legal standing and pursue a claim in a way that protects your financial interests and minimizes impact on your relationship with the dog owner.
