Until recently, New York was one of the toughest states for dog bite victims. To win a case, you had to prove that the dog had previously shown “vicious propensities”—such as biting, snarling, or lunging—before the attack occurred. That meant many victims were left without legal recourse simply because the dog hadn’t bitten anyone yet.

But that has changed. In Flanders v. Goodfellow (2025), New York’s highest court overturned that outdated rule. Now, victims can bring claims based on negligence—just like in a car crash or slip-and-fall. If a dog owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent harm—like ignoring leash laws, letting a dog run loose, or failing to secure a fence—they can now be held legally responsible, even if the dog never bit anyone before.

In Pennsylvania, victims have always had the right to sue for negligence in dog bite cases. A dog owner who fails to act responsibly—especially with a known dangerous dog—can be held liable for the injuries their pet causes. PA law also allows for strict liability in some cases, such as when a dog has a known history of aggression or the injuries are severe.

It’s important to act quickly:

• In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the bite or injury to file a lawsuit.

• In Pennsylvania, the deadline is shorter—only two years from the date of the attack.

At WDC Injury Law, we represent victims in both states and offer free consultations for anyone injured by a dog. Whether you or a loved one was bitten, knocked down, or seriously hurt, we’re here to help you understand your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 607-500-HURT or email inbox@wdcinjurylaw.com.