In April, 2025, the New York Court of Appeals changed the way dog bite and animal injury cases will be handled in the future. In deciding the case Flanders v Goodfellow, the court ruled in favor of Rebecca Flanders, a postal worker who was attacked by the Goodfellow’s 70-pound dog while delivering a package. Although the Goodfellow’s dog had not bitten anyone prior to Ms. Flanders, the court agreed with her plea — that the dog had the propensity to be aggressive and the owners should have had him under better control.
This ruling will make pet owners liable for pets’ actions if they know or should know their animal is capable of dangerous behavior, and they have not taken reasonable precautions to avoid attacks on humans or other animals.
If you are attacked by a pet, document everything with photos of your injuries, the place the attack occurred (note open doors, gates allowing pets access to strangers, etc.), get contact information for witnesses, and file a police report. Seek medical attention for your injuries, and keep records of the incident including bills, receipts, medical diagnoses, and lost income for recovery time.
We have been handling claims on behalf of individuals who have been seriously injured due to the negligence of pet owners since 1980. To contact us about injuries you have sustained due to an animal attack, call 1-800-343-8537 for a free consultation. Compensation for your losses, pain and suffering can be substantial.