If you sustained injuries in a dog attack, you may have grounds to pursue a settlement for lost income, medical expenses, and more. Trantolo & Trantolo’s Valley Stream personal injury lawyers have been helping victims recover compensation for more than 85 years. We offer free consultations and representation for no upfront cost. Contact us to speak with a dog bite attorney in Valley Stream today.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Claim in Valley Stream?
It is your decision whether to hire an attorney following a dog attack. While you can attempt negotiations with the responsible party and their insurer, having an attorney on your side can streamline the process and maximize your settlement value.
When you hire Trantolo & Trantolo’s Valley Stream dog bite lawyers, you receive focused legal support from a dedicated legal team assigned to your claim. Your team will:
- Compile evidence, such as animal control records, police reports, and witness statements
- Gather medical bills and other documents to prove your damages
- Seek supporting testimony from medical, economic, and other applicable experts
- Identify the dog owner and file a claim with their insurer
- Negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement
- File a lawsuit and represent you in court, if necessary
Whether you suffered a dog bite while delivering a package or walking in the park, our team has the knowledge and resources to seek fair compensation on your behalf.
Dog Owners Are Responsible for Their Animals’ Behavior
In Valley Stream, all dogs must be leashed and muzzled unless they are on the owner’s property, per Valley Stream Code § 4-11. In addition, New York State holds dog owners responsible for any damage or injuries caused by their animal, even if it is not designated a “dangerous dog” under AGM § 123.
Before 2025, dog owners had to be aware that their dog posed a danger to others, but a court ruling in Flanders v Goodfellow removed this requirement. Now, dog owners and keepers are legally responsible for injuries caused by their animal, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior.
What Does This Mean for My Dog Bite Claim?
Following the 2025 court ruling, it may be easier for injured parties to bring a negligence claim after a dog attack. If you can show that the dog’s owner or keeper did not take reasonable steps to prevent harm — such as restraining the dog or following local leash and muzzle rules — you may have grounds to seek compensation.
Trantolo & Trantolo provides free consultations to help you understand how the recent dog bite ruling, as well as state and local laws, can affect your claim for compensation.
What Compensation Can I Recover for a Dog Bite in Valley Stream?
The value of your dog bite settlement depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of damages, and the dog owner’s insurance policy.
Injury Severity Directly Impacts Your Settlement Value
The more severe your injuries, the higher your settlement will typically be. This is largely because severe injuries cause more physical and psychological trauma, scarring and disfigurement, and long-term financial hardship. Dog bites that cause long-term disability, impairment, or mobility issues are more likely to have a significant impact on the victim’s quality of life.
Economic and Non-Economic Impacts of a Dog Bite
Your settlement is largely determined by the extent of your economic or non-economic damages. Our team vigorously advocates for your right to a fair settlement for all your losses, including:
- Lost income, including hourly wages, salary, and benefits
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Medical expenses, such as emergency treatment, surgery, prescription medication, and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
Dog Owner’s Insurance Coverage
Most dog bite claims go through the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance, rental policy, or other property liability coverage. Policy limits can affect how much you recover for a dog bite claim. Trantolo & Trantolo knows how to identify all avenues for compensation and fight for the maximum possible recovery. Contact us to discuss your options during a free consultation.
What Do I Do if I’m Bitten By a Dog in Valley Stream?
Following a dog bite in Valley Stream, take these steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or require emergency medical care.
- Contact the Nassau County Police Department and the Nassau County Department of Health to report the incident for a non-emergency dog bite.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries do not seem severe. Dog bites can have serious and life-threatening complications, including infection, compartment syndrome, infection, nerve damage, and rabies.
- Get the owner’s contact information and other details, including their address, insurance information, and a description of the dog.
- Obtain witness information, such as names and phone numbers, so that the authorities and your attorney can contact them for statements about the attack.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care, follow-up appointments, and rehabilitation. You will need these medical records to support your claim.
- Hire a dog bite lawyer right away. While you get treatment for your injuries, your attorney can begin taking statements and gathering evidence to support your claim.
Insurance adjusters or the dog owner’s lawyer may reach out to you right away for a statement or to offer a settlement. Avoid discussing your case before you speak with an attorney. Although insurers may seem to be working with you, they will use anything you say to reduce or deny your claim.
Don’t Fight Solo – Call Trantolo & Trantolo Today
Insurance companies are notoriously stubborn, and an initial offer rarely covers the full extent of your losses. Handling your case without a lawyer could leave you in dire financial straits. Trantolo & Trantolo’s attorneys are familiar with insurance company tactics. We are here to help you navigate the claim process and avoid common pitfalls that could compromise your case.
You typically only have a short time to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. If you miss the filing deadline, you may lose your chance of recovering compensation.
Don’t fight solo – use Trantolo & Trantolo’s extensive knowledge and resources to secure the best possible resolution. We have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for dog bite victims. Rest assured, we will not settle for less than you deserve.
FAQs for Our Firm’s Dog Bite Lawyers
How Much Does a Dog Bite Attorney Cost?
Trantolo & Trantolo’s dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront for their legal representation. If we don’t win compensation, you owe no attorney fees or costs.
Is It Worth It to Sue for a Dog Bite?
It may be worth it to file a lawsuit against a dog owner or insurance company, especially if you sustained severe injuries. Many dog bite lawsuits settle before they go to court, but a lawsuit can motivate the insurance carrier to offer a more reasonable settlement. Consult with Trantolo & Trantolo’s dog bite lawyers to determine the best legal options for your situation.
How Much Compensation Do You Get for a Dog Bite?
Compensation for a dog bite claim varies depending on your injury severity and damages, the extent of the owner’s liability, and the dog owner’s insurance policy limits. Trantolo & Trantolo can review your case for free and help you determine which damages you may be entitled to.
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