Dog Bite Lawyer

Each year millions of Americans are bit by dogs. Around 800,000 of those bites are serious enough to require medical attention, with approximately 30,000 resulting in reconstructive surgery. Some attacks even result in death. Most often the victims are innocent children who don’t understand how dangerous dogs can be and lack the knowledge of how to prevent or stop an attack.

The injury’s pain, scars and trauma can be debilitating. Medical care and recovery, which can include skin grafts, may be expensive. Jacoby and Meyers helps dog bite victims in the New York City area recover damages for their injuries.

Identifying Who is Responsible for the Dog Attack

In New York there is a limited degree of strict liability for dog attacks. If a dog bites people or other pets, the owner or custodian must pay all the medical or veterinary bills associated with the attack. If the dog has a previous history of violence, the one-bite rule applies. According to the one-bite statute, the owner or custodian of a dog with a history for violence may also be held responsible for non-medical damages, such as pain and suffering. The victim must prove that the dog owner or custodian knew before the attack that the dog was dangerous and failed to take precautionary measures to prevent the attack from happening.

There are circumstances, however, in which damages are not recoverable, such as when the victim:

Provoked the dog
Touched the dog after being warned it may be dangerous
Trespassed on private property

Typical Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause minor to serious injuries, including:

  • Puncture wounds
  • Skin lacerations
  • Broken bones
  • Nerve damage
  • Scars
  • Infections
  • Emotional trauma
  • Rabies

The experienced personal injury lawyers at Jacoby and Meyers will work diligently to uncover any relevant facts, like a history of danger.

No Legal Fees Unless There is a Successful Settlement or Verdict

We are committed to providing affordable legal representation to those in need. Jacoby and Meyers personal injury clients pay no attorneys’ fees until and unless we successfully settle your case or win a verdict in your favor.

If you or a loved one have suffered a dog bite injury, contact our attorneys today to schedule a free consultation.