Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, legal disputes, and financial consequences. If your dog has bitten someone in New York, you may be wondering whether you are liable for the damages. At the Law Offices of John E. Gray, we help Rockville residents navigate the legal implications of dog bite incidents.

Understanding New York’s Dog Bite Laws

New York follows a mixed liability system when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner’s liability depends on whether their dog has a dangerous history and whether negligence played a role in the incident.

• Strict Liability for Medical Costs
  If your dog has bitten someone, you are automatically responsible for covering their medical expenses, regardless of whether your dog has a history of aggression. This is known as strict liability and applies even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before.
• Additional Liability for Damages
  If the victim seeks compensation for damages beyond medical expenses (such as lost wages, pain and suffering, or emotional distress), they must prove that the dog had a dangerous propensity and that you were aware of it.

What Qualifies as a "Dangerous Dog"?

Under New York law, a dangerous dog is one that has:

• Attacked or injured a person, farm animal, or pet without justification.
• Acted in a way that would make a reasonable person believe it poses a serious risk of injury.

If your dog has previously bitten someone or shown signs of aggression (such as growling or lunging), you may be held liable for additional damages beyond medical expenses.

Defenses Against Dog Bite Liability

Not every dog bite results in legal liability for the owner. You may not be held liable if:

• The victim was trespassing on your property at the time of the attack.
• The dog was provoked or teased before the bite occurred.
• The victim was committing a crime when the bite happened (e.g., burglary or assault).

What to Do If Your Dog Bites Someone

If your dog has bitten someone, take the following steps:

1. Ensure the victim receives medical attention – Address any injuries and provide assistance if necessary.
2. Exchange contact information – Share your details with the victim.
3. Report the incident – In some cases, reporting the bite to local authorities may be required.
4. Consult a lawyer – Legal guidance can help protect your rights and address any claims made against you.

Seek Legal Guidance

If you are facing a dog bite claim, the Law Offices of John E. Gray can provide legal assistance in Rockville and the surrounding areas. Our team understands New York’s dog bite laws and can help you navigate potential liability. Contact us today to discuss your case.