The person responsible in a dog bite case is typically the dog owner or keeper, as they are legally obligated to control their animal and prevent it from causing harm. Dog bite cases can involve challenging questions of liability, which is why it’s important to hire a dog bite lawyer in Brooklyn for help.
In most situations, the law holds the owner accountable for injuries caused by their dog, especially if the bite occurs on public property or the victim is lawfully on private property. However, other parties, such as landlords, pet sitters, or property owners, may sometimes share liability depending on the circumstances.
Dog bite injuries can be difficult legal issues to unravel. We’ll dive into the answers to the question, “Who is responsible in dog bite cases?” in this article.
Potentially Liable Parties After a Dog Attack
Determining who may be responsible for a dog attack is not always straightforward. While the dog owner is usually the primary party held liable, other individuals or entities can share responsibility depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Understanding the range of potentially liable parties can help victims identify all sources of compensation and strengthen their legal claim:
- Dog owner or keeper: The individual who owns or has custody of the dog is generally responsible for controlling the animal and preventing injuries.
- Landlords: Property owners who allow tenants to keep dangerous dogs in violation of lease agreements or local ordinances may share liability.
- Pet sitters or dog walkers: Individuals responsible for supervising or controlling the dog at the time of the attack may be held accountable if negligence contributed to the bite.
- Property owners or businesses: Owners of homes, yards, or businesses where the dog attack occurs may be liable if they failed to warn visitors about the presence of a dangerous dog.
Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to severe lacerations, infections, or even permanent disfigurement. Because of the potential severity, victims often face significant medical expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma.
Understanding who is responsible for a dog attack (and how to pursue compensation) is critical to protecting your rights and securing the support you need for recovery.
Recent Court Rulings Have Made It Easier for Dog Bite Victims to Pursue Compensation
New York has expanded victims’ ability to pursue compensation even if the dog had no prior history of aggression.
A recent April 2025 court ruling (the Flanders decision) has made it easier for victims to hold dog owners accountable for injuries, particularly medical expenses, even if the dog has no prior history of biting. The decision also increases the likelihood that owners will be found liable for negligence if they fail to take precautions.
The decision broadened the circumstances under which victims can hold dog owners legally responsible, even if the animal had no prior history of aggression or previous bites. This development strengthens victims’ ability to seek fair compensation for their injuries.
Contributory Factors in Dog Bite Cases
Several factors can influence who is held responsible in a dog bite case. These include:
- Location of the incident: Dog bites that occur on public property or areas where the victim is legally present often strengthen the victim’s claim.
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog, it may affect liability or reduce damages, though it does not automatically absolve the owner.
- Negligence: Owners who leave their dog unleashed or fail to secure gates can be found negligent.
- Previous behavior of the dog: A dog with a history of aggression or prior attacks increases the likelihood of the owner being held responsible.
Each case is unique, which is why pursuing a dog bite claim without professional legal assistance can be challenging. Understanding local statutes and precedents is essential to handling these cases successfully.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
Why You Need a New York Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog bite lawyer plays a crucial role in ensuring victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses. Here’s why having an experienced attorney matters:
- Investigation and evidence gathering: A lawyer can collect critical evidence, such as medical records, photographs of injuries, witness statements, and veterinary reports on the dog’s behavior.
- Understanding state laws: A lawyer has a deep understanding of dog bite laws in New York and can use this knowledge to secure a favorable outcome.
- Establishing liability: Determining who is responsible and proving negligence or strict liability can be complicated. An attorney can help build a strong case against the responsible parties.
- Maximizing compensation: A lawyer can calculate damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress, helping you receive the full compensation you deserve.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts or dispute claims. An experienced New York personal injury lawyer can handle negotiations to protect your interests and avoid unfair settlements.
Potential Damages in Dog Bite Cases
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the severity of the injury and the circumstances of the attack. These can include:
- Medical expenses: Costs for emergency care, surgeries, medications, therapy, or ongoing treatment
- Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injury or recovery
- Pain and suffering: Financial recognition of physical pain, emotional distress, and lifestyle changes resulting from the attack
- Disfigurement or permanent disability: Additional damages if the bite leaves lasting scars or functional impairments
- Punitive damages: In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages if the owner’s behavior was particularly reckless or intentional
Get a Free Dog Bite Legal Consultation With Levine And Wiss Today
So, who is responsible in dog bite cases? In dog bite cases, the person most often responsible is the dog’s owner or keeper, who has a legal duty to control the animal and prevent it from causing harm.
Recent changes have made it so that victims can pursue damages more easily, so don’t wait. Consulting with an experienced dog bite lawyer in New York is essential when it comes to securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, get a free consultation with us at Levine And Wiss now. For more information about accident claims and personal injury law, visit our helpful FAQ page.
