If you have suffered an injury from a dog bite on Long Island, contact us today.
Dogs are beloved for their loyalty and companionship, but some dangerous dog breeds have been bred for strength and aggression. While size and breed can suggest potential danger, even small dogs can be risky, particularly for children. Victims of dog attacks can seek legal action against the dog owner with the help of a dog bite lawyer, regardless of the dog’s breed.
How Serious Is the Dog Bite Problem?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 2011 and 2021, there were 468 fatal dog attacks, averaging 43 deaths per year in the US.
Top Most Dangerous Dog Breeds
According to a report by DogsBite.org that analyzed dog bite fatalities over a 13-year period, pit bulls accounted for over half of all fatalities. Rottweilers and pit bulls were responsible for 77% of dog attack fatalities, often involving mail carriers and delivery personnel. Other breeds involved in fatalities included German Shepherds, mixed breeds, American Bulldogs, and Mastiffs.
The most dangerous dogs are:
Pit Bulls
The Pit Bull is actually an umbrella term for several different breeds, such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Statistically, pit bull terriers are the most high risk dog breed for attacks on people: it represents 6% of the dog population yet account for two-thirds of fatal dog bites. Originally bred for hunting and fighting, their powerful jaws and unpredictable nature result in serious dog attacks, though not all pit bulls are dangerous.
Rottweilers
Rottweilers are strong, large dogs, weighing up to 135 pounds with a bite force of 338 pounds per square inch. They are extremely protective and can be both affectionate and aggressive. Proper mental and physical stimulation is essential to prevent irritation and aggression.
German Shepherds
German shepherds are popular guard dogs because of their trainability and strong bite. However, they can be aggressive and territorial, sometimes leading to attacks, including fatalities. Proper training of aggressive breeds is crucial for managing their behavior, but many owners fail to invest in it.
Bulldogs
Bulldogs, weighing up to 100 pounds, are strong and muscular, necessitating early training and socialization to prevent aggression. Their powerful jaws and strong teeth can deliver a bite with 305 pounds of pressure per square inch, contributing to approximately 4% of dog bite fatalities.
Bullmastiffs
Bullmastiffs, a mix of English mastiff and American bulldog, are large dogs weighing up to 130 pounds. They are protective and will attack if they sense danger to their family. Despite being a rare breed, they account for 3% of dog bite fatalities in the U.S.
Siberian Huskies
Siberian huskies, despite weighing only up to 60 pounds, can cause serious harm due to their working dog genetics and survival instincts. Originating from wilderness areas, they are independent and may perceive challenges or threats, making them more likely to attack small children.
Doberman Pinscher
Doberman pinschers are often used as guard dogs, known for their aggression and intelligence, which can make them dangerous. Standing up to three feet tall, they can cause serious bite injuries, especially when they feel threatened. Their strong jaws can exert over 300 pounds of pressure per square inch.
Other Dangerous Dog Breeds
According to dogster.com, some other dog breeds that can be dangerous include:
- Akita
- American XL Bully Dog
- Boerboel
- Cane Corso
- Collie
Are Certain Breeds Banned in New York?
New York State doesn’t ban any breed of dog (AGM/107), but local jurisdictions can implement their own rules. Some municipalities may regulate ownership of certain dog breeds seen as dangerous. Potential dog owners should check local laws for specific regulations.
New York has a law that restricts homeowners insurance companies from refusing to cover pet owners who own dangerous dog breeds. The law prohibits insurance companies from refusing to renew policies or to charge higher premiums for people who own these dogs.
Local restrictions can prohibit certain dog breeds. In New York City, certain breeds are banned in New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) buildings. Some areas may fine or penalize owners of dangerous breeds if they attack someone.
What Liability Laws Does New York Have for Dog Bites?
In New York, standard dog bite laws apply regardless of breed. New York follows a “one bite” rule that means a dog’s owner can be held liable for an attack or injury caused by their dog if they knew or should have known that their animal had aggressive tendencies. Documentation of the dog’s behavior is needed in order for the dog owner to be held liable. Evidence of a prior bite is one way to show this, but is not the only way to do so.
What Damages Might a Victim Receive in a Dog Bite Case?
Once you establish your legal right to compensation, you might seek damages for:
- Medical expenses, including reconstructive surgery.
- Lost income for time missed from work or a reduction in your earnings capacity.
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress from the trauma (PTSD) of an animal bite.
- Scarring and disfigurement.
Worry About Your Specific Injuries, Not an Average Settlement
After the incident, don’t accept average settlement figures from insurance companies. Your situation is unique, and you’re entitled to full compensation for damages. Hire a dog bite injury attorney promptly to investigate and gather evidence, estimate your case’s value, and negotiate or file a lawsuit if necessary.
Consult with a Dog Bite Attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered dog bite injuries on Long Island caused by a dangerous dog breed, promptly contact a lawyer with experience handling the complex New York laws regarding dog bite incidents. A lawyer can evaluate the situation, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and advocate for your rights.
Quick action is crucial to meet claim deadlines and preserve evidence. Reach out to a personal injury attorney on Long Island to seek justice and compensation for your injuries.
