This calculator estimates what a dog bite claim could be worth under New York law. It applies New York’s pure comparative rule, the three-year deadline to file suit and the insurance that usually pays, then shows the math line by line, including what you might take home after a lawyer’s fee.
New York does not make owners automatically liable for every bite, so the strength of the claim depends on what the owner knew about the dog or how careless they were. The calculator values the injury; proving liability is a separate step.
New York rules behind this estimate
Fault. New York uses pure comparative fault. If a jury finds you 20% at fault, your award drops by 20%, and you can still recover something even if you were mostly to blame. Insurers still argue your share up, because every point of fault comes off the payout.
Dog bite rule. Owners are liable for injuries if they knew or should have known the dog was vicious. Medical costs are covered without proof of fault if the dog was already declared dangerous.
Deadline. You have three years from the bite to file a lawsuit in New York. A claim against a city, county or state agency usually needs written notice much sooner, sometimes within months. Missing the deadline almost always ends the claim, and with it your leverage to settle.
Insurance. Most dog bite claims are paid by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, which usually carries $100,000 to $300,000 of liability coverage. Some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with a bite history, so ask for the policy early.
Damage caps. No cap on injury damages. Medical malpractice and punitive damages can have separate limits.
New York dog bite questions
Is New York a strict liability state for dog bites?
No. Owners are liable for injuries if they knew or should have known the dog was vicious. Medical costs are covered without proof of fault if the dog was already declared dangerous.
What if I was partly at fault for the bite?
Yes. New York uses pure comparative fault, so you can recover even if you were mostly at fault. Your award is reduced by your percentage. Provoking or teasing the dog is the usual argument.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in New York?
three years from the bite.
Who pays for a dog bite?
Usually the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Report the bite to animal control and get the owner’s insurance details at the scene if you can.