Being bitten by a dog is often a terrifying experience. A dog bite can cause serious and painful injuries and the injuries sometimes go beyond the physical.
Dog bite victims can suffer from mental or psychological distress after the bite. If you are an animal lover and bitten by a dog, you may now find yourself afraid to go near one.
As a dog bite victim, you have a right to compensation after being bitten or attacked by a dog. New York has a strict liability law when it comes to dog bites.
What strict liability means
Under this law, a dog owner is responsible for all medical and other costs if their dog causes injury or death to another person. They are liable for all damage caused by the bite even if they took all reasonable precautions to prevent the bite and their dog had never bitten anyone before.
There are several steps you should take after a dog bite. Call 911 if the dog continues to be an immediate danger to you or others. Obtain the owner’s name and contact information.
If you do not know who the dog’s owner is, get the contact information of anyone at or around the scene of the bite. They may be able to help you determine the dog’s owner.
Wash the bite with soap and water. See your doctor for treatment and follow any treatment instructions. Keep copies of all medical documentation related to the dog bite.
You might need a rabies shot
Report the dog bite to the health department. They can help you determine if you need a rabies shot.
Remember that under New York’s strict liability law, you have a right to compensation for the damage caused by the dog bite, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Your damage could include medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
