Staten Island Dog Bite Lawyer

You’re walking down the street, minding your own business, when suddenly a dog jumps out and bites you! It can be scary and confusing, especially if you’re hurt. Maybe you’re worried about the injuries or the bills that might come from them.

This happens more than you might think. Every year in the United States, many people are bitten by dogs. Luckily, there are laws in place to help people who get hurt by dogs that aren’t being nice.

Here at Staten Island, we have lawyers who specialize in helping people just like you! These special lawyers are like superheroes for people who have been bitten by dogs. They know the laws inside and out and can fight to get you the help you deserve.

Why Would I Need a Staten Island Dog Bite Attorney?

Let’s say you get bitten by a dog and need to go to the doctor. Doctor visits can be expensive, and sometimes, the hurt doesn’t go away right away.

You might miss school or work because of the bite. This can be a lot to deal with!

A dog bite attorney can help you get the money you need to pay for doctor bills, medicine, and anything else you might need because of the bite. They can also help you if you have to miss work or school because of your injuries.

What Kind of Lawyer Should I Look For?

Many Staten Island personal injury lawyers can help with dog bites, but you want to find one who works in your area and knows the laws of New York.

The lawyers we work with are friendly and understanding. They know how scary and stressful dog bites can be, and they’ll be there for you every step of the way.

How Can the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm Help in Staten Island for Your Dog Bite Case?

After a dog attack, the last thing you want to worry about is complicated legal battles. Here at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we understand the physical and emotional toll a dog bite can take.

That’s why we’re dedicated to fighting for Staten Islanders who’ve been injured in dog attacks so you can focus on healing. Here’s how our experienced dog bite lawyers can make a difference in your case:

• Uncovering the Truth: We’ll launch a thorough investigation to gather evidence, including witness statements and any history of aggression the dog might have had. This helps build a strong case that proves the dog owner’s negligence.
• Standing Up for You: Insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of your injuries or even blame you for the attack. Our lawyers know New York’s contributory fault laws and will fiercely defend your right to compensation, even if the insurance company tries to shift responsibility.
• Holding All Parties Accountable: Sometimes, multiple parties might be responsible for your injuries. Maybe the dog owner didn’t properly secure their property, or perhaps a landlord failed to maintain a safe environment. We’ll identify everyone who could be held liable, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.
• Building a Strong Case: To determine the true value of your claim, we might enlist medical experts who can document the extent of your injuries and any future medical needs you might have. This strengthens your case and helps us negotiate the best possible outcome.
• Fighting for What You Deserve: Our skilled negotiators will go head-to-head with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. We won’t settle for anything less than what you deserve to cover medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering you’ve endured.

Dog bites can be unexpected and traumatizing. Don’t face this challenge alone. Our Staten Island personal injury attorneys are here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you need to move forward.

Contact the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm today at (516) 689-1132 for a free consultation to discuss your case.

How Common Are Dog Bites in Staten Island?

Believe it or not, Staten Island has the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of reported dog bites per capita in New York City. Between 2015 and 2017, there were a staggering 1,000 dog attacks reported on Staten Island – that’s about 199 attacks per 100,000 residents. This is significantly higher than Manhattan, which came in second with 144 attacks per 100,000 residents.

While dog bites can happen anywhere, it’s important to be aware of the statistics, especially if you live in or frequently visit Staten Island. It’s estimated that roughly 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention, so it’s no small issue.

Here are some interesting facts about dog bites on Staten Island:

• Breeds: Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Bullies, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and German Shepherds are the most common breeds involved in dog bite injuries on Staten Island.
• Postal Workers: Staten Island also has one of the highest rates of dog bite injuries to postal workers in the nation. Dog attacks can happen anywhere, and everyone needs to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions around unfamiliar dogs.

Understanding New York Dog Bite Laws

The laws surrounding dog bites in New York can be a little complex compared to other states. Here in New York, we have a mix of the “one-bite rule” and limited strict liability.

The “one-bite rule” essentially means that a dog owner is generally not liable for the first bite their dog inflicts unless the owner knows the dog has a history of biting. However, there are exceptions. New York law holds dog owners strictly liable for medical and veterinary costs if their dog has previously been deemed “dangerous” by a court.

What Qualifies as a “Dangerous Dog” in New York?

New York has a specific law defining “dangerous dogs.” A dog can be classified as dangerous if it:

• Without justification, attacks and injures or kills a person, pet, or farm animal.
• Behaves in a way that would cause a reasonable person to believe the dog poses a serious and imminent threat of serious injury or death.

There are, however, some important exceptions to this law. For example:

• Law enforcement K-9 units wouldn’t be considered dangerous dogs while performing their duties.
• A dog protecting its home from a trespasser or someone committing a crime wouldn’t be considered dangerous.
• A dog protecting its owner, puppies, or itself wouldn’t be considered dangerous.
• A dog provoked or abused by a person wouldn’t be considered dangerous if it bites that person in response.
• A dog reacting to pain or suffering won’t be considered dangerous if it injures someone.

What Is My Staten Island Dog Bite Case Worth?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much your dog bite case is worth. Every situation is unique, and the value of your claim depends on several factors.

Here at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we understand the emotional and financial toll a dog bite can take, especially on children. Children can suffer long-term emotional trauma from a dog attack, and the impact on their future earning potential can be difficult to quantify.

Factors Affecting Your Dog Bite Case Value

• Severity of Injuries: The extent of your injuries is a major factor. More serious injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, surgery, or rehabilitation will generally have a higher value than minor injuries.
• Long-Term Impacts: Did the attack cause any permanent disabilities or limitations? Will you need ongoing medical care? These factors will be considered.
• Lost Wages: If you missed work due to your injuries, the lost income will be factored into your claim.
• Medical Bills: This includes all past and future medical expenses related to treating your injuries.
• Emotional Trauma: Dog bites can cause significant emotional distress, such as PTSD, anxiety, or fear of dogs. The emotional impact of the attack will be considered.
• Scarring or Disfigurement: Any permanent scarring or disfigurement from the bite will affect the value of your claim.

Protecting Your Child’s Future

If your child was injured in a dog attack, it’s crucial to have an experienced lawyer on your side. We understand the complexities of child injury cases and can fight to ensure your child receives the compensation they deserve for their current and future needs.

What Are the Consequences for Dog Owners?

The consequences for dog owners vary depending on the circumstances. Under New York’s dangerous dog law, the owner is strictly liable for medical bills if the dog has a history of violence.

For other damages, the owner might be liable if they failed to take reasonable steps to control the dog.

The Impact of Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from puncture wounds and lacerations to broken bones, nerve damage, and even death. Beyond the physical injuries, dog bites can also lead to significant emotional trauma, such as fear of dogs, anxiety, or PTSD.

These emotional scars can take a long time to heal.

What Types of Damages Are Available to Dog Bite Victims?

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Staten Island, the physical and emotional toll can be significant. The good news is that New York law allows victims to seek compensation for a variety of damages related to the attack.

The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm understands the financial burden a dog bite can create. We’ll fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for all your losses, including:

• Medical Expenses: You are always entitled to compensation for past and future medical bills related to the attack. This can include hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any future medical care you might need.
• Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Potential: If you missed work due to your injuries, or if your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you can be compensated for lost wages and diminished earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Dog bites can be incredibly painful, both physically and emotionally. You deserve compensation for the physical pain you’ve endured, as well as the emotional distress caused by the attack, such as anxiety, fear of dogs, or PTSD.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Dog bites can leave permanent scars. The severity and location of the scarring will be factored into your compensation.
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have impacted your ability to maintain a normal relationship with your spouse, you may be able to seek compensation for loss of consortium.
• Wrongful Death: In the tragic event of a dog bite fatality, surviving family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Beware of Lowball Offers

Insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlements to accident victims. Don’t accept the first offer you receive!

The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm has the experience and skills to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Building a Strong Case for Maximum Compensation

Our team of experienced dog bite lawyers will work tirelessly to build a strong case that proves the dog owner’s negligence and the extent of your damages. This may involve:

• Gathering Evidence: We’ll interview witnesses, collect medical records, and obtain any available video footage of the attack.
• Consulting Experts: In some cases, we may enlist medical or financial experts to assess your future medical needs and lost earning potential.

Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

Sometimes, parties other than the dog owner might share responsibility for the attack. For example, a landlord might be liable if they failed to take action after complaints about a dangerous dog on their property.

Our legal team will investigate all parties who might be liable to ensure you receive full compensation.

Staten Island Dog Bite Law Firm – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Getting bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been attacked by a dog on Staten Island, you likely have many questions.

Here at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help you understand your rights and options.

What should I do after a dog bite?

• Seek medical attention immediately, regardless of the severity of the wound.
• If possible, report the attack to animal control.
• Take pictures of your injuries and the scene of the attack.
• Gather the contact information of any witnesses.
• Contact a Staten Island dog bite lawyer to discuss your legal options.

How much is my dog bite case worth?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The value of your case depends on the specific circumstances, such as the severity of your injuries, the dog’s bite history, and the dog owner’s negligence.

An experienced dog bite lawyer can evaluate your case and provide a more accurate estimate.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case?

Dog bite laws can be complex. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What if the dog’s owner doesn’t have insurance?

There may still be options for recovering compensation. An attorney can explore all avenues, such as pursuing a claim against the property owner or seeking compensation from your own homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.

How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in New York?

The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in New York is generally three years from the date of the injury. However, it’s important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines.

CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm is Here to Help

If you’ve been injured in a dog attack in Staten Island, don’t hesitate to contact the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm. Our team of experienced and compassionate attorneys understands the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you’re facing.

Call Now for a Free Consultation

Ali Awad, also known as the CEO Lawyer, is the founder and managing attorney of one of the fastest-growing law firms in the United States. Ali has over one million followers on social media who come to him for personal injury advice of all types.

The CEO Lawyer’s team of experienced attorneys has handled cases just like yours and boasts a success rate of over 99.5%.

Contact our Staten Island personal injury law firm today at (516) 689-1132 for a free consultation to discuss your case. We’ll answer your questions and guide you through the legal process.

Don’t wait! Get the legal help you deserve.