Does Premises Liability Cover Animal Attacks on Long Island?

Animal Owners Must Prevent Attacks

When the owner of an animal willingly accepts the title of “owner,” there are certain responsibilities that they must uphold. Ensuring that an animal does not attack other people or animals is just one of the duties that a pet owner has. Owners may take several precautions to prevent attacks on their property. This could include warning guests of an animal’s aggression, posting warning signs on their property, or caging their pet when guests arrive.

Some other ways that an animal owner may prevent an attack include:

Knowing Their Animal

Some animals are more aggressive than others. Dogs, in particular, may be an issue in densely-populated urban centers, such as Long Island and its surrounding areas.

The owner of a certain dog breed should be aware that their dog, even if it has never hurt another person before, may be inclined toward aggression. Dog owners should never make any assumptions regarding their animal’s behavior. If they do, they could face liability if an incident happens on their property.

Maintaining a Safe Distance from Others

Premises liability may cover an animal attack on Long Island if a property owner allows their animal to roam without restraint.

A person could be liable for their pet’s actions if:

• They allowed their animal to walk around without a leash or another type of restraint.
• They allowed their animal to approach other humans or animals.
• They allowed others to approach their animal without warning them about their animal’s aggressive tendencies.

All animal owners have a duty of care to keep their pet from harming others. They should err on the side of caution at all times.

Taking Other Preventative Measures

Any animal owner who understands that their pet is not always friendly around others has options for reducing the risk of harm. They do not have to isolate their animal but may take other measures, such as walking their animal in open spaces or using a muzzle. If the owner of an animal that attacked you or a loved one was negligent in any way, then a lawyer could secure compensation for your losses.

Animal Attacks May Cause Severe Trauma

Animals have certain bacteria in their bodies that humans do not. MedlinePlus explains that infection is a risk associated with animal bites and can make an already-serious injury worse.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some complications that may stem from an animal attack include:

• Lacerations
• Severe bruising
• Broken bones
• Amputation
• Disfigurement

An infection may occur even if an animal has its necessary shots. If the animal does not have shots for certain conditions (such as rabies), then the risk of infection may be even greater.

You May Seek Compensation After an Animal Attack

Whether through a premises liability claim or lawsuit, you may be able to collect compensation after an animal attack. A lawyer could handle the entirety of your case, which could allow you to recuperate from your injuries.

A lawyer’s job is to seek compensation on your behalf, and this job may require them to handle a variety of duties.

Some of the ways that a lawyer may help you or a loved one include:

• Evaluating the circumstances of the attack
• Identifying the at-fault and liable parties
• Evaluating and calculating your losses
• Completing the legal aspects of your claim or lawsuit

A lawyer will also keep you updated on the progression of your case. You may have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit, so you should consider your legal options as soon as you can.

Call the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP for More Details

Our legal team can help you seek compensation following an animal attack. Call the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP today at (866) 878-6774 for a free consultation.