Dog Bite Injury? Get the Compensation You Deserve, Call Raphaelson & Levine
The dog's owner called it "just a nip" — but you're left with medical bills, nightmares, and pain. Leave the legal process to the award-winning New York City dog bite lawyers at Raphaelson & Levine.
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Over $900 Million Recovered — We Don't Rest Until True Justice Is Served
Some personal injury law firms may shy away from long nights of preparation and going to trial. At Raphaelson & Levine, it's what gets us out of bed in the morning.
FAQs: Navigate Your Dog Bite Injury Case With Confidence
Uncertain about your legal rights against negligent dog owners? Get straightforward answers that help you make informed decisions.
What damages are recoverable from a dog bite injury in New York?
After a dog attack, our personal injury lawyers can help you recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, medications, therapy)
- Future medical care (such as plastic surgery or ongoing rehabilitation)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and PTSD
- Scarring or disfigurement from the dog bite and/or scratches
- Property damage (e.g., torn clothing, broken glasses)
- In rare cases, punitive damages if the owner acted recklessly
When should I contact an experienced dog bite injury attorney?
Contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible after the incident. Early legal guidance helps us preserve crucial evident and witness statements, avoid missing and critical filing deadlines, and ensure your legal rights are protected.
Our dog bite lawyers provide peace of mind so you have space to focus on your recovered, not phone calls from insurance companies.
How do I prove negligence in dog bite injury lawsuits in New York?
The New York Court of Appeals recently eliminated the requirement to prove that a dog had “vicious propensities” or that the owner was aware of such behavior.
Dog bite victims may recover compensation through two legal paths:
Strict Liability: The owner is automatically liable for your medical costs if the dog had a known history of aggression (“vicious propensity”) and the owner knew or should have known about it. Evidence can include prior bite reports, neighbor statements, or animal control records.
Negligence: You can now recover additional damages (like pain and suffering or lost wages) by showing the owner was careless or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack—even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. Examples include not using a leash, ignoring warning signs, or failing to secure the dog. Evidence may include witness testimony, photos, and records of the owner’s actions before the incident.
A dog bite injury attorney at Raphaelson & Levine Law Firm will help gather and present the necessary evidence to prove your claim under either legal standard.
What is the average settlement for a dog bite injury claim in New York?
Dog bite settlements in New York typically range from $15,000 to $250,000, depending on the severity of the injury, medical costs, and circumstances of the attack.
Severe cases involving permanent scarring or multiple surgeries can exceed $500,000. Minor injuries may settle for less, while significant injuries or attacks by certain breeds often result in higher payouts.
At Raphaelson & Levine, our award-winning team has recovered over $900 Million for injury victims across New York. Every dog bite case is unique, let us help you understand what your claim may be worth and guide you toward the compensation you deserve.
Contact ustoday for a free, no-obligation consultation. Your recovery starts with a conversation.
It’s Simple.
You Pay $0 Unless We Win Your Dog Bite Claim.
During your free case evaluation so will ask questions to understand the details of your injury, & evaluate your legal options.
Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys will handle the legal process, and negotiate on your behalf.
We will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome and ensure you receive maximum compensation.


Raphaelson & Levine, the Voice of the Injured Since 1992
A personal injury claim is more than a legal battle — it's about you and the impact an injury has had on your livelihood. Your struggles, uncertainties, and journey to recovery matter to us. Awarded Best Lawyers® 'Best Law Firm in New York City,' our law firm serves as your advocates, trusted advisors, and most crucially, your empowered voice.
Real Clients, Telling Real Stories
Read past client's experiences through even the toughest legal challenges.
They constantly called to see how I am doing which was a plus. I felt at ease having them as my lawyer. Definitely, I would recommend them.
Y Lahoz
Injured in Car Accident
In the end they secured a settlement we never expected. I highly recommend them as personal Injury attorneys !!!
Art E.
Personal Injury
In addition to the financial aspect, their support and guidance helped me navigate the emotional and mental challenges that came with this accident.
They turned a challenging and distressing situation into a positive outcome that greatly improved my quality of life. Thank you once again for all that you've done for me.
Gregg C.
Rear-end Collision
They are extremely caring in the way they do their work and always made sure to keep me up to date with what was going on.
Andrew and Myra went above and beyond my expectations and made sure I received what I deserved and more! I will be forever grateful to the team and will always recommend them! 💕💕
Maria L.
Personal Injury
I really can’t thank them enough and I highly recommend this firm if you ever have an accident. Know your rights and call them.
Suzanne L.
Personal Injury
This firm clearly cares about their clients and will fight till the end to secure the best settlement possible.
Anthony O.
Personal Injury