Bronx Dog Bite Lawyer

New Yorkers love their dogs, and in the Bronx, it can sometimes feel like no matter where you go, whether you are walking the city streets or knocking back a few cold ones at the local bar, you are sure to encounter at least a pup or two. Unfortunately, as much as we may love our dogs, these beloved canine companions can pose a serious danger to our communities. Over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the US, and more than 800,000 of those attacks will require medical attention, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

If another person’s dog has bitten you or someone you care about in the Bronx, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your damages. A Bronx dog bite lawyer from Lever & Ecker, PLLC, can conduct a full review of your claim, determine the total value of your losses, and work diligently to safeguard your rights throughout the process.

What to Do After Being Attacked by a Dog in the Bronx, New York

All dogs in New York City are required to be licensed, and that license must be displayed on the animal’s collar any time they are occupying a public space. These licenses serve multiple purposes, including:

• Funding local animal shelters and spay and neuter programs
• Helping to reunite lost dogs with their owners
• Providing verification of rabies vaccination
• Permitting off-leash play at New York City park dog runs

However, most importantly, these licenses simplify medical follow-ups in the event of a dog attack. If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog in the Bronx, make sure you:

• Collect the dog owner’s contact information. If the dog’s owner is unknown, gather contact information for any person who may be able to provide details about the dog.
• Immediately seek medical attention for your injuries. If needed, dial 911, especially if the animal continues to pose an immediate danger to you or others.
• Report the attack or call 311 so the Health Department can determine whether you might need a rabies shot.
• Speak with a Bronx dog bite attorney to discuss your legal options.

Unlike other cities, such as Denver and Miami, the Bronx does not have any breed-specific legislation. This is because New York City, like countless other cities in the United States, understands that any dog is liable to bite or attack another person, regardless of the dog’s size or breed.

Can a Dog Owner Be Held Responsible if Their Dog Bites You in the Bronx?

Under New York law, a dog owner (or one in custody or control of a dog) may be held liable for injuries caused by a dog if the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s so-called “vicious propensities.” This can be established by showing prior instances in which the dog bit someone or otherwise behaved aggressively. Certainly, finding prior instances in which a dog acted viciously can be a challenge, although local animal control or police records can sometimes prove helpful. Given these challenges, it is important to have a knowledgeable and experienced dog bite lawyer on your side, to perform the research and analysis necessary to see if you have a valid claim against the owner of the dog that injured you. .

Pursue Compensation With an Experienced Bronx Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you or someone you love has suffered an injury in a Bronx dog attack, you may have the right to recover compensation with a personal injury claim against the dog’s owner. At Lever & Ecker, PLLC, our Bronx personal injury attorneys have over 65 years of combined experience, and we understand how physically, emotionally, and financially devastating an attack by a dog can be.

To find out if you may have a valid personal injury claim against a negligent dog owner in the Bronx, schedule a free consultation with us by calling (718) 933-3632. You may also complete our convenient contact form to request more information.