top of page

Have you had an accident and require legal assistance?

516-634-0345

Dog Bites

Navigating Dog Bite Injuries

Suffering severe injuries from a dog bite can be traumatic, and you may be eligible for compensation for your distress. The laws in New York outline specific conditions under which a person can claim damages from a dog bite. If you or your loved one has fallen victim to a dog bite, it's advisable to seek consultation from experienced professionals like us to discuss your case.


In New York, the "One Bite" rule is prominent. This rule implies that the owner can be held accountable for injuries caused by their dog if they had prior knowledge of the dog's dangerous behavior. Contrarily, a history of biting isn't mandatory for you to present a valid case. A dog's tendency to bark fiercely behind a fence or within a house might be sufficient to satisfy the legal criteria demonstrating a propensity towards dangerous behavior.

Assessing Dangerous Dog Behavior

Several behaviors, aside from biting, could indicate a dog's propensity towards posing a risk to others. These include:

​

  • Persistently jumping on people

  • Regularly chasing individuals or other animals

  • Previous incidents of biting people or other animals

  • Having been trained for dog fights

  • Past behaviors that have led to official complaints

  • A dog demonstrating any of these behaviors can significantly strengthen your case for compensation.

Limits to Owner Liability

Under New York's "One Bite" law, there are instances where the owner may not be held accountable for injuries caused by their dog. If the owner wasn't aware of the dog's previous dangerous behavior, or if the dog has shown no tendency towards violent or dangerous conduct, the owner might be exempt from liability.


In most jurisdictions, including the Town of Hempstead, a "Dog at Large" is prohibited. In legal terms, an unleashed dog is considered "at Large," and the leash should not be longer than six feet. Exceptions are made when the dog is on the owner's property or within the confines of an official town Dog Run.

Understanding Provocation and Liability

Dogs, regardless of their history or tendencies, can be unpredictable. If provoked, dogs are likely to defend themselves and their owners. In scenarios where the dog was provoked, and it responds by attacking, the law protects the owner from liability. Similarly, if a person trespasses onto a property and is bitten by the dog, the owner may not be held responsible for the injuries.

Medical Care Following a Dog Bite

After suffering a dog bite, immediate medical care is crucial not just for physical recovery but also for the strength of your case. Thorough documentation of your injuries, the treatments provided, and any subsequent medical issues can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. From a legal perspective, this information can help illustrate the full extent of your injuries and the impact on your life, providing essential evidence for your case.


While immediate medical attention is a priority, long-term care may also be necessary. Dog bites can lead to significant injuries or long-lasting trauma, such as fear of dogs or even post-traumatic stress disorder. Working with medical professionals and therapists can help victims navigate these challenges, and the costs of these services should be factored into any compensation sought.

The Role of Witness Accounts in Dog Bite Cases

Witness testimony can be instrumental in dog bite cases, particularly when establishing the dog's previous dangerous behavior. If an incident occurred in a public place or residential area, bystanders or neighbors might provide crucial details corroborating your claim. Gathering witness accounts promptly after the incident ensures that memories are fresh and details are accurate. With a comprehensive account of the event, you strengthen your case, making it more likely that you'll receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Reach Out to the Law Offices of Stern and Stern

If you've been injured due to a dog bite or being jumped on by a dog, you may be entitled to receive compensation from the owner. Contact the Law Office of Stern and Stern at 516-634-0345 for a free consultation. With our contingency-based operation, you only pay if there's a settlement or verdict with an award, ensuring zero risks to you.

bottom of page