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Helping Victims of Dog Bites in Suffolk County
If you have been been injured from a dog bite, we are here to help! Here's some answers to commonly asked questions.
How do I report a dog bite in Suffolk County?
Reporting a dog bite is very important. It helps keep you and your community safe and could help you recover damages from the injury. To report a dog bite, contact the Suffolk County Department of Health Services and file a complaint.
What should I do after a dog bite?
It would be ideal to know the dog's medical history, including its inoculation history.
Regardless of whether you know the dog’s history or not, here are some steps you should take:
- Get the dog owner’s contact info.
- Get info for anyone who may be able to identify the dog, if unknown.
- Care for the bite wound and contact a doctor.
- Report the bite.
- Call 911 if necessary.
Should I see a doctor for a minor dog bite?
The Dr. Ian Dunbar’s Dog Bite Scale is used to determine the severity of a bite. Only one type of injury might be considered minor enough to not warrant a visit to the doctor.
What happens if your dog bites someone in Suffolk County?
In Suffolk County, the owner of the dog could be found liable and receive a criminal penalty. If a dog previously deemed dangerous is permitted to bite someone, then the person responsible for the dog could receive up to a $3,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail.
Can I get compensation for a dog bite?
Under Suffolk County and NY State law, a victim of a dog bite may be entitled to compensation.
New York State follows, “strict liability,” so the victim of a dog bite may not need to prove negligence in order to receive compensation.
Should I consult a Suffolk County injury lawyer if I’ve been injured from a dog bite?
Yes! If you’ve been injured, the experienced Suffolk County lawyers at Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P., can help you. Call (631/516) 451-7900