Legal Options for Dog Bite Victims Go Far Beyond Just Medical Bills
Dog attacks can happen anywhere—on city sidewalks, in private residences, or while someone is just trying to do their job. They’re sudden, traumatic, and often leave more than physical scars. For victims in New York, the aftermath can include steep medical bills, missed work, lasting emotional harm, and difficult legal questions.
That’s why dog bite prevention efforts are more than just awareness campaigns—they’re a reminder that accountability matters, and legal rights must be protected.
Dog Attacks Are Common and Dangerous
Every year, thousands of people are injured by dogs in the U.S., and New York is no exception. While many assume serious bites come from stray or visibly aggressive dogs, data shows most dog bite injuries involve family pets—often in familiar settings. Delivery workers, maintenance personnel, and even neighbors can be caught off guard.
Injuries vary in severity but can include:
- Deep puncture wounds
- Nerve damage or infections
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Trauma requiring reconstructive surgery
- Emotional distress or PTSD
Under New York law, victims have a right to seek compensation—but how that claim works depends on key factors like the dog’s history, the owner’s knowledge of dangerous behavior, and whether the attack happened on private property.
That's why it's so important to consult an experienced New York City dog bite lawyer who can find the facts that matter to your case and aggressively advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Case Result: Justice for a Dog Attack Victim in the Bronx
Keogh Crispi, P.C. recently secured a $300,000 recovery on behalf of a postal worker who was bitten while delivering mail to a Bronx residence. The attack occurred on the dog owner’s property and resulted in serious injuries, including scarring and spinal surgery.
The court awarded summary judgment in favor of the victim, finding the dog’s owner 100% liable under New York’s strict liability statute. This outcome shows what’s possible when aggressive legal action is paired with a strong investigative approach.
Understanding New York’s Dog Bite Laws
New York’s dog bite law holds the dog’s owner strictly liable for the victim’s medical bills if the dog is deemed dangerous. But to recover compensation beyond that—like lost income or pain and suffering—the law requires proof the owner knew (or should have known) the dog had a “vicious propensity.”
That can include:
- Previous bites or attempted attacks
- Growling, lunging, or snapping at people
- Prior complaints or citations related to the dog
- The owner keeping the dog chained, muzzled, or warning others to stay away
These cases often require careful investigation, fast action, and strong legal advocacy from a dog bite lawyer to preserve evidence and prove liability.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in NYC
If you or someone you love is attacked by a dog, take these steps immediately:
- Get medical help. Dog bites can become infected quickly, so always see a doctor right away.
- Report the incident. In NYC, you can call 311 or file a bite report online.
- Document the injury. Take photos of wounds and any torn clothing.
- Identify the dog and owner. Get names, addresses, and any insurance information.
- Don’t delay. Speak with a lawyer before accepting any settlement from the owner’s insurance company.
Time is critical in dog bite cases. Waiting too long can make it harder to prove fault or secure the compensation you deserve.
Our Approach: Building a Case the Insurance Company Can’t Ignore
At Keogh Crispi, P.C., we don’t just react—we build proactive, trial-ready cases. Attorney Pat James Crispi and his dedicated legal team prepare every claim as if it were going to court. From interviewing witnesses to working with medical experts, we leave nothing to chance.
Our goal is simple: fight for the maximum compensation our clients are entitled to under New York law—and make sure no insurance company gets away with minimizing the harm caused by a serious dog attack.
You Have Legal Rights. We’re Here to Help.
Whether your dog bite injury happened while walking through your neighborhood or while working a delivery route, you shouldn’t have to deal with the consequences alone. We’re here to hold the right parties accountable and pursue justice on your behalf.
Schedule your free consultation with Keogh Crispi, P.C. today, and let’s talk about how an experienced New York City dog bite attorney can help you determine your next steps.
"I am writing this review to inform that Pat James Crispi is an outstanding lawyer! What I like about him is that he guided me every step through my lawsuit; he quickly responded every time I called with concerns and educated me. Was also very attentive with my upcoming appointments. Handing my case to him resulted in a nice settlement and smooth process. I recommend Pat all the way and will use him again if needed in the future." — Raphael P., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐