Reviewed by Laurence P. Banville, Esq.Frequently asked questions
How long do you have to report a dog bite in New York City?
NYC Admin Code §17-342 requires dog bites to be reported to the Department of Health within 24 hours. The obligation falls on the victim, the dog owner, and any healthcare provider who treats the wound. Prompt reporting triggers a rabies investigation and creates an official record that can support your legal claim.
Is there a deadline to sue for a dog bite injury in New York?
Yes. Under CPLR §214, you have 3 years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York. Missing this deadline almost always bars your claim entirely, regardless of how strong the evidence is.
Does New York have strict liability for dog bites?
New York follows the “one-bite rule,” not strict liability. An owner is liable only if they knew or should have known the dog had vicious propensities—prior biting, lunging, or aggressive behavior. If the dog had no known history, proving liability requires evidence of the owner’s prior knowledge.
What happens if you do not report a dog bite right away?
Failing to report quickly can hurt both your health and your legal case. Without a timely report, there may be no official record of the incident, no rabies quarantine of the animal, and gaps in documentation that the defense can use to dispute your account. Report immediately and seek medical attention on the same day.