New York Dog Bite Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
New York Dog Bite Lawyer — What Are Your Rights After an Attack?
A dog bite in New York County (Manhattan) can cause serious injury and complex legal issues under NY law. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused representation for dog bite victims. Our New York dog bite lawyer understands the specific statutes and procedures of Manhattan courts.
New York Dog Bite Law and Your Rights
New York uses a mixed approach to dog bite liability. While there is no statewide “one-bite” rule, owners can be held strictly liable for medical costs if their dog causes “serious injury” as defined by law. For other damages, such as pain and suffering, you typically must prove the owner knew or should have known the dog had dangerous propensities. This legal standard is outlined in New York statutes and case law.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience handling personal injury claims, including those involving animal attacks. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, brings a strategic approach to complex liability cases.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the law is critical. You can review the New York Agriculture & Markets Law § 121 (official NY Senate site), which addresses dangerous dogs. For court procedures, refer to the New York County Supreme Court website.
handling a Dog Bite Claim in Manhattan
In New York County, dog bite claims are filed in Supreme Court, which has unlimited jurisdiction for personal injury lawsuits. A key local procedural fact is the application of New York’s pure comparative fault rule. If you are found partially at fault for the incident (e.g., provoking the dog), your financial recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. This makes detailed evidence collection vital.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Your health is the priority. Obtain treatment and keep all records, as they directly document your injuries.
- Report the Incident: File a report with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and, if applicable, the property manager or landlord.
- Gather Evidence: Collect contact information for the owner and any witnesses. Take photos of your injuries, the location, and the animal if safe.
- Document Everything: Keep a journal of your recovery, medical appointments, missed work, and how the injury affects your daily life.
- Consult a New York Dog Bite Attorney: Before speaking with insurance adjusters, get legal advice to protect your rights and understand the full value of your claim.
- File a Notice of Claim (if applicable): If the bite occurred on city property (e.g., a public park), you may have 90 days to file a Notice of Claim against the City of New York.
Potential Damages in a Dog Bite Case
In New York County, a dog bite victim may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and permanent scarring or disability, subject to the rules of comparative fault.
| Damage Type | Description | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, surgery, medication, therapy, future medical care. | Strict liability may apply for medical costs if injury is “serious.” |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to recovery; reduced future earning capacity. | Requires documentation from your employer and medical providers. |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain and emotional distress from the attack and recovery. | Typically requires proof the owner knew of the dog’s dangerous nature. |
| Permanent Disfigurement | Scarring, nerve damage, or lasting physical impairment. | Can significantly increase the value of a claim. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Dog Bite Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has a deep understanding of personal injury litigation. We focus on providing clear guidance through the legal process. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, ensures a strategic approach to every case, leveraging his background in complex case analysis.
Our firm is committed to advocating for injured clients. We handle the legal details so you can focus on recovery.
Local Presence for Manhattan Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (838) 292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients with matters at New York County (Manhattan) courts. We are accessible via major transit lines including all subway lines, PATH, and Metro-North. We provide representation to residents across Manhattan’s neighborhoods, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, the Upper East and West Sides, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, the Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for a dog bite lawsuit in New York?
Three years. You generally have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York. Missing this deadline will likely bar your claim forever, so it is crucial to consult a New York dog bite attorney promptly.
Can I sue if the dog bit me but never bit anyone before?
It depends. New York law may hold an owner strictly liable for your medical costs if the injury is “serious,” regardless of the dog’s past. However, to recover for pain and suffering, you often need evidence the owner knew the dog had aggressive tendencies, which can be shown by prior growling, snapping, or other threatening behavior.
What if I was partially at fault for the dog bite?
You can still recover. New York follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. If you are found 20% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%. Even if you are 90% at fault, you could recover 10% of your damages. A New York dog bite law firm can argue to minimize your assigned fault percentage.
Who is liable if a dog bites a guest in an apartment building?
Potentially multiple parties. The dog’s owner is primarily responsible. In some cases, a landlord or property management company may also be liable if they knew a dangerous dog was on the premises and had the authority to remove it but failed to do so.
What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Manhattan?
Four key steps: First, get medical attention. Second, identify the dog and its owner. Third, report the bite to NYC authorities. Fourth, contact a New York dog bite lawyer before giving detailed statements to insurance companies.
Related Legal Information
If you need other legal services in Manhattan, our firm can assist. You may also find our pages on Business Law and Civil Litigation useful. For more on personal injury law across New York, visit our New York Personal Injury hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Albany County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. For current guidance, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.