How to Document Evidence After a Dog Bite in NYC

How to Document Evidence After a Dog Bite in NYC

New York City is home to millions of people – and their pets. While most dogs are friendly, dog bites and attacks can and do happen in NYC. Whether it’s a minor nip or a severe attack, knowing what to do immediately afterward is crucial for protecting your health and legal rights.

New York has specific laws governing dog owners’ liability. Properly documenting evidence can make the difference between a denied insurance claim and fair compensation for your losses.

At Hill & Moin LLP, we’re dedicated to helping dog bite victims get the compensation they deserve. In this blog, we will explain what steps to take to preserve evidence after a dog attack.

Get Immediate Medical Attention After a New York City Dog Bite

Your health always comes first. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection, scarring, and other complications.

Follow these essential steps:

• Call 911 if necessary. If the wound is deep, bleeding heavily, or the victim is a child or elderly person, call for emergency help immediately.

• Clean the wound. If possible, wash the dog bite gently with soap and water to reduce infection and risk.

• Seek professional care promptly. Even if the wound seems minor, visit a doctor or an urgent care clinic right away. Some dog bite injuries might not be immediately obvious.

• Follow all medical advice. Complete the full course of any prescribed medication, such as antibiotics or rabies vaccine.

• Keep copies of medical records. Request copies of all medical reports, hospital bills, prescriptions, and treatment plans. These are vital evidence of your dog bite injuries and medical treatment costs.

Identify the Dog and Its Owner

In New York City, the dog owner is typically liable for damages their dog causes. This is especially true if the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. However, you must know who the owner is to file a personal injury claim.

If possible, request important information:

• Ask for the dog owner’s contact information. Politely ask for the dog owner’s name, address, and phone number. If they refuse, try to note where they live or follow up with neighbors in the area.

• Document the dog’s details. Write down the breed, color, size, and any unique markings. Take photos or videos of the dog if it’s safe to do so.

• Request vaccination records. Ask if the dog is up to date on rabies shots and request proof. This can determine whether you need post-exposure rabies treatment.

Take Photos of Dog Bite Injuries and the Scene

Clear, detailed photos can be one of the most compelling pieces of evidence in a New York City dog bite case.

Immediately after the incident, if you’re physically able (or have someone to help you), take pictures of the following:

• Your injuries: Take close-up photos of bite marks, scratches, bruises, torn clothing, or other injuries caused by the animal attack.

• The healing process: If possible, document the progression of your injuries as they heal. This is evidence of how long your recovery takes and the full impact of your dog bite injuries.

• The dog: If you are able, take photos of the dog involved. Include identifying features, the collar, and any tags.

• The dog owner: Snap a picture of the owner if you can do so discreetly, as well as where the dog was restrained or unleashed.

• The scene: Document where the dog bite occurred, including street signs, landmarks, or any relevant conditions like broken fences or open gates.

Speak to Eyewitnesses After Your NYC Dog Bite Attack

Dog bites often happen in public areas or in front of neighbors, passersby, or building staff. Witnesses play an important role in providing additional support for your dog bite claim.

Their statements may help corroborate your version of events. They may also protect you against claims that you provoked the dog or trespassed.

Here’s what to do:

• Politely ask witnesses for their full names and contact information
• Write down or record their version of what they saw while it’s fresh in their minds
• If possible, ask them to sign and date a brief written statement

The Importance of Filing a Report After a New York Dog Bite

In New York City, filing an official report with the local authorities:

• Creates a legal record: It provides an objective account of the incident that can be used as evidence in negotiations or litigation.

• Identifies the dog and owner: Reports can enable local authorities to track down the dog’s vaccination status. They can also help determine whether it has a history of aggressive behavior.

• Initiates an investigation: Local animal control officers and health departments can follow up to assess the risk posed by the dog to others.

• Establishes timelines: The date and time of the report become part of the evidence timeline, which is critical in a dog bite case.

• Demonstrate responsibility: Promptly filing a report shows you took the incident seriously and helps validate your dog bite claim.

You can report a dog bite by calling 311. You can also visit the NYC Department of Health website to report the bite. Be sure to request a copy of the filed report for your records.

If the dog is a threat to public safety, contact the New York Police Department or the local Animal Care Centers of NYC.

Keep a Personal Injury Journal

A personal injury journal is an invaluable record of how the dog bite has affected your daily life.

In it, write down:

• Daily pain levels and symptoms
• Emotional impacts (fear, anxiety, sleep loss)
• Missed work, school, or social activities
• Doctor appointments and medical advice
• Restrictions on movement or activities
• Progress during recovery

Date each entry. This diary can humanize your dog bite injury case. A journal demonstrates the long-term effects that photos and medical records alone cannot fully capture.

Record All Related Dog Bite Injury Expenses

Financial documentation is needed to get back full compensation for damages. Keep receipts, bills, and bank statements for all expenses related to the dog bite.

This could include:

• Medical bills
• Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications
• Transportation costs to medical appointments
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation
• Counseling or mental health treatment
• Lost wages due to time off of work
• Costs of replacing or repairing damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, etc.)

Organize these receipts in a dedicated folder or digital file. This detailed record helps your attorney calculate fair compensation and supports your claim for both economic and non-economic damages.

How a New York Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

Even when you do everything right, dog bite claims can be complicated.

An experienced New York dog bite lawyer can:

• Investigate thoroughly: Experienced dog bite attorneys can gather additional evidence, contact witnesses, and request surveillance footage. They can also obtain veterinary records to get the dog’s history of aggression.

• Prove liability: In New York, owners can be held liable under common law or local ordinances. A dog bite lawyer knows how to prove that the dog had a vicious propensity or that the owner was negligent.

• Handle the insurance company: Insurers often try to downplay injuries or blame the victim. Your personal injury lawyer negotiates aggressively to protect your legal rights.

• File a personal injury lawsuit if needed: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

• Maximize your compensation: Attorneys know how to calculate the true cost of medical bills, future healthcare treatment, lost income, pain, emotional trauma, and disfigurement. They make sure you’re not shortchanged on compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) After a NYC Dog Bite Attack

What if I was bitten and don’t know who owns the dog?

Call 311 or the NYPD immediately. Animal control can investigate. Witnesses and security cameras may also help identify the dog’s owner.

What if the dog owner denies the bite happened?

That’s why evidence is crucial. Medical records, photos, witness statements, and official reports can prove your claim even if the dog owner disputes it.

Is the dog owner always liable in NYC?

New York laws apply a modified version of the “one-bite rule.” If the dog was known to be aggressive and the owner failed to control it, the owner could be held liable for injuries. An attorney can evaluate your case and help prove liability.

Should I talk to the dog owner’s insurance company?

Do not give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without speaking to a dog bite lawyer first. Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in New York City?

You have limited time from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York. However, if a child is bitten, the time limit may be extended. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing deadlines

Can I get compensation if I was attacked by a stray dog?

It’s more challenging but not impossible. If a landlord, property owner, or another party negligently allowed stray dogs to pose a danger, you might still have a case. A dog bite lawyer can help investigate your options.

How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?

Most New York dog bite lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and the lawyer only gets paid if you win a settlement or verdict.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Dog Bite Attorney Today

Suffering a dog bite can be traumatic, painful, and confusing. However, how you handle the aftermath can make all the difference in securing the justice and compensation you deserve. Carefully documenting evidence is not just a step in the legal process; it’s the foundation of a strong personal injury claim.

The legal team at Hill & Moin LLP understands the challenges New Yorkers face after a dog attack. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t wait – reach out to us today for a free consultation. Let us help you hold negligent owners accountable while you focus on healing from your injuries.

Your recovery matters. Your evidence matters. And we’re here to make sure it all counts. Contact Hill & Moin today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and Personal Injury Recovery SolutionsⓇ.

Don’t wonder about your rights!