A Showing of Vicious Propensity Under New York’s Dog Bite Law Does Not Require “A Prior Bite”
Under New York State law, if you are injured by a dog bite, and you can prove that the dog has a dangerous nature and the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s dangerous behavior or propensity, then the owner of the dog will be responsible for injuries you have sustained as a result of the attack.
Examples of dangerous propensity are:
- The dog has a tendency to growl or snap at people.
- The owner tells people that his dog is a guard or attack dog.
- The dog owner cautions others that his dog bites.
- The dog wears a muzzle.
- The dog is restrained in such a way as to indicate that he is a danger to others.
Once it is determined that the owner knew or should have known that his dog was vicious, the next step is to find out as much as you can about the dog and the owner, including whether or not the owner has insurance. Types of insurance policies that typically cover dog bites include:
-Homeowner’s insurance;
-Renter’s insurance;
-Landlord’s liability insurance;
-Commercial general liability insurance