Who’s Responsible When a Reactive Dog Causes Injury in New York?

If you or a loved one has been injured by a reactive dog, our dog bite lawyers can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation.

In New York, dog owners can be held responsible for the behavior and actions of their pets, including when a reactive dog causes injury. If you or a loved one has been injured by a reactive dog, our dog bite lawyers can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

What Is a Reactive Dog?

Reactive dogs are those that exhibit aggressive or fearful behavior in certain situations, such as when encountering other dogs in a dog park or people on the street. This behavior can be triggered by a variety of factors, including past trauma, lack of socialization, inadequate reactive dog training, and genetic predisposition.

What Are a Reactive Dog’s Symptoms?

These animals often display a range of visible and audible symptoms when confronted with the dog’s triggers. Common signs include barking, growling, lunging, or snapping at strange dogs or people. They may also pant excessively, pace anxiously, or exhibit signs of fear such as trembling or cowering.

Reactive behavior can vary in intensity, and some dogs might become hyper-focused on the trigger—like in frustration-based dog reactivity or leash reactivity—ignoring attempts to redirect them.

What Triggers Reactivity?

Most dogs’ reactive behavior can be triggered by various stimuli, including unfamiliar people, other adult dogs, loud noises, or sudden movements.

In some cases, a reactive dog may also exhibit aggressive behavior towards people or another dog if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. This situation can be especially dangerous, as the owner may not recognize the warning signs and other people could potentially be injured.

Is It the Owner’s Fault If a Dog Is Reactive?

Determining whether a dog’s reactivity is the owner’s fault can be complex. While some reactive behaviors may stem from a lack of proper training, socialization, or boundaries provided by the owner, other factors such as genetics, past trauma, or specific breed tendencies can also play significant roles when a dog exhibits reactivity.

If a reactive dog hurts another person, the dog’s owner may be considered liable under New York law if there is a demonstrated pattern of vicious behavior.

What Are the Legal Consequences of a Reactive Dog Attack?

If a dog’s documented behavior patterns—including dog reactivity—cause injury in New York, the responsibility falls on the owner to compensate the victim for damages resulting from the attack. This may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

The owner may face additional legal consequences, such as civil and criminal fines.

What Is the Law on Dog Bites in NY?

New York follows a “one bite” rule that means a dog’s owner can be held strictly liable for medical costs resulting from a bite or attack. They may also be liable for other damages if they knew or should have known that their animal had aggressive tendencies and there is documentation of this behavior. Evidence of a prior bite is one way to show this, but is not the only way to do so.

Who Pays If You Are Bitten by a Reactive Dog in New York?

If you are bitten or otherwise injured by a reactive dog with a history of aggressive behavior, in New York, the owner can be held responsible for paying for damages resulting from the attack.

In some cases, insurance may cover liability claims related to dog bites or attacks. Seek legal advice to ensure you receive fair compensation and understand your rights in these situations.

Will Medical Insurance Cover a Dog Bite?

Whether medical insurance covers dog bite expenses depends on your policy. Most plans cover necessary treatments like emergency care, stitches, or vaccinations, but you may still owe deductibles or copays. Review your policy to check coverage and exclusions.

If the dog owner is liable, their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may reimburse your costs. Discuss your case with a dog bite lawyer to find out what compensation may be available after a dog attack.

Call Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P. Today

If you were bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and more. At Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P., our attorneys have a thorough understanding of New York law regarding dog bites, have years of experience representing clients who suffered dog bites, and will fight for your rights to get you the justice you deserve.

We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win. Call today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.