A dog bite injury in New York frequently involves consequences far exceeding a minor wound. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, it is crucial to determine who bears the responsibility for settling your medical bills. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about these matters and how our experienced Westchester County Dog Bite Attorneys can help you navigate your legal options.
Why Are Dog Bite Medical Bills Such a Big Issue in New York?
A seemingly minor canine bite can precipitate a substantial sequence of medical expenses. Standard initial treatment protocols often encompass:
- Emergency room (ER) or urgent care triage and evaluation.
- Thorough wound debridement, suturing, and sterile dressing application.
- Administration of a tetanus toxoid booster and, if clinically warranted, post-exposure rabies prophylaixs.
- Prescription of prophylactic antibiotics to mitigate the risk of secondary infection.
- Diagnostic imaging should injury to underlying structures, such as bone, tendon, or joint, be suspended.
More grievous attacks frequently necessitate intervention for deep tissue lacerations, peripheral nerve damage, bone fractures, inpatient hospitlization, complex surgical repair, skin grafting procedures, and protracted scar revision or management. Pediatric victims, owing to the psychological trauma of a frightening incident, may also require mental health counseling or psychotherapeutic intervention. The cumulative financial burden can rapidly escalate, determining liability and payment responsibility, a source of significant stress.
Who is Legally Responsible?
In New York State, a dog owner is held strictly liable for a person’s medical expenses resulting from a dog bite. It is important to note that New York law only permits the recovery of medical damages in a lawsuit, excluding damages for general negligence claims.
To successfully pursue a claim, you must demonstrate that your injuries are serious. Crucially, you must also prove that the dog had a history of violent tendencies and that the owner was aware of them. While establishing a dog’s violent tendencies may seem straightforward, it often requires thorough investigation. At Hausman & Pendzick, we are prepared to assist you in building your personal injury case through various legal means, including interviewing neighbors and searching for prior injury claims. Our legal team will vigorously represent your interests to recover the damages necessary for your recovery.
What Should I Do After a Dog Bite in New York?
Immediate medical treatment is essential. Dog bites pose a high risk of infection and potential hidden damage ot nerves, tendons, and joints. A doctor must evaluate the wound, determine the need for suturing, assess tetanus and rabies risks, and prescribe appropriate antibiotics and pain relief. Following medical orders and documenting all symptoms creates a critical record linking the injuries directly to the bite for any future claim.
As soon as possible, take these steps to secure evidence:
- Identify the dog owner and collect their contact information.
- Take comprehensive photos of your injuries, the attack location, and the dog (if safe).
- Gather witness names and contact information.
- Preserve physical evidence like torn clothing.
- File an official report with animal control or local law enforcement.
These actions create official and physical proof to strengthen your case and establish liability.
For guidance and skilled representation during these difficult times, please don’t hesitate to contact an attorney at Hausman & Pendzick.