Poughkeepsie Animal Attack Attorneys

Representing Victims of Dog Bites & Other Animal Attacks in Dutchess County

Animal attacks can cause serious injuries, especially when the victim is a child. In addition to the physical injuries, victims may also suffer from emotional trauma and other damages. If you or your child were bitten or attacked by an animal, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

At Basch Keegan & Spada, we understand the immense impact an animal attack can have on your life. Our Poughkeepsie animal attack lawyers are here to help you fight for the full, fair recovery you are owed. We have successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients, and we are prepared to put our extensive experience to work for you.

Call (845) 251-4545 or contact us online today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with our animal attack attorney in Poughkeepsie.

What to Do After an Animal Attack in Poughkeepsie

After an animal attack, it is important that you take the right steps to protect your health and your rights.

Here’s what you should do:

• Get to safety: If you are able, move to a safe location away from the animal.
• Call 911: If you or someone else is seriously injured, call 911 and request an ambulance. You should also report the attack to the police.
• Identify the animal: If you can, identify the animal that attacked you. If it is a stray or wild animal, do not attempt to capture it. If it is a pet, try to locate the owner.
• Get medical attention: Even if your injuries are relatively minor, you should still seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as puncture wounds, may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, seeing a doctor will create a record of your injuries, which can be helpful if you decide to file a claim.
• Document the scene: If you are able, take pictures of the scene of the attack, as well as your injuries. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information.
• Report the attack: Report the attack to your local animal control agency. If the animal is a pet, you should also report the attack to the owner’s homeowner’s insurance company.
• Do not give a statement: Do not give a statement to the insurance company or anyone else until you have spoken to an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that can be used against you.
• Call an attorney: An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim.

Understanding New York's Dog Bite Laws

New York applies strict liability and negligence standards to dog bite cases. Owners are strictly liable for a victim’s medical expenses if their dog is classified as dangerous. For additional damages beyond medical bills, the victim generally must show the owner acted negligently, such as by failing to leash a dog where local ordinances require it. Poughkeepsie, as part of Dutchess County, enforces leash laws and animal control rules. When an incident involves a "dangerous dog," local officials may investigate the animal’s prior history and look for complaints or warnings on record.

For families in the Poughkeepsie area, understanding these legal distinctions matters for establishing liability and proving eligibility for compensation after a dog attack. When an owner ignores local animal control notices or violates city or county park leash rules, the victim may have a stronger claim. Our familiarity with Dutchess County ordinances helps us explain these distinctions so you can make informed choices about your case.

How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?

Dog bite victims in New York generally have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. The statute of limitations sets this deadline; if you miss it, you may lose your right to seek damages. Acting quickly gives your attorney time to gather evidence, contact witnesses, and request reports from animal control or healthcare providers.

Poughkeepsie residents should act promptly because memories fade and critical evidence can disappear. Keeping records like injury photographs and securing contact information for witnesses can significantly strengthen your case. Clients who take early action often avoid delays tied to insurance deadlines or municipal reporting requirements. Our team helps clients understand the timeline so they can take each step within the legal deadlines.

Who Can Be Held Liable for an Animal Attack?

When an animal attacks, the owner is typically liable for the victim’s injuries. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

In New York, an animal’s owner can be held liable for an attack if:

• The animal has a history of viciousness
• The owner violated a leash law or other animal control law
• The owner was negligent in some way

It is important to note that, in New York, the “one bite” rule does not apply. This rule, which is followed in some states, states that an owner is only liable for an attack if the animal has bitten someone before. In New York, an owner can be held liable for an attack even if the animal has never bitten anyone before.

Additionally, it is important to note that, in some cases, a third party may be liable for an animal attack. For example, if an animal attacks someone at a park, the park owner may be liable if they failed to take reasonable steps to protect visitors from animal attacks.

What Damages Are Available in an Animal Attack Case?

If you suffered injuries from an animal attack, you may recover both economic and non-economic damages in your case.

Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to recover compensation for:

How Our Poughkeepsie Animal Attack Attorney Can Help You

If you or your child was injured in an animal attack, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Poughkeepsie animal attack attorneys can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim. We are committed to providing you with the compassionate, personalized legal services you deserve.

When you choose our firm, you can expect:

• Compassionate, personalized legal services: We understand that every case is unique, which is why we take the time to listen to your story and understand your goals. We will then work to develop a personalized legal strategy that is tailored to your needs.
• Aggressive advocacy: We are not afraid to take on large insurance companies and corporations. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who are prepared to fight for you in court, if necessary.
• Open and honest communication: We will keep you updated on any developments in your case and will always be available to answer your questions. Our team is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need.

Contact us at (845) 251-4545 today to request a free consultation with our Poughkeepsie animal attack lawyer.