At The Orlow Firm, we understand how traumatic a dog bite incident can be—physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Flushing, Queens, you deserve experienced legal representation committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you need.
Since 1982, our skilled Flushing dog bite lawyers have helped countless Flushing residents recover from serious injuries caused by dog attacks. Led by attorneys Brian and Adam Orlow, our family-run firm combines decades of proven results with compassionate, personalized service. We treat each client like family, ensuring you never feel alone or overwhelmed by the legal process.
Dog bite incidents can leave lasting scars, both physically and psychologically. Our legal team knows the neighborhoods of Flushing intimately—from busy areas like Main Street and Roosevelt Avenue to quiet residential streets in Murray Hill and Queensboro Hill. Our local expertise allows us to build strong cases tailored specifically to your situation and community.
When your health, financial stability, and peace of mind are on the line, trust The Orlow Firm. We’ll stand by your side, fiercely advocating to help you obtain justice and maximum compensation for your dog bite injuries.
Don’t wait—call (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation today.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Flushing, Queens
In Flushing and throughout New York City, dog bite cases are typically governed by a mix of strict liability and negligence principles. This means dog owners or handlers can be held responsible for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression.
Under New York’s “one-bite” rule, the owner may face strict liability if they knew or reasonably should have known about their dog’s aggressive tendencies. Even if it’s the dog’s first attack, you might still recover compensation by proving negligence—for example, if the owner failed to restrain or control their dog appropriately, violating local leash laws.
Flushing residents must also adhere to specific local regulations set by New York City’s Health Department, including leash requirements and rules against dogs running freely in public areas such as parks or sidewalks. Violations of these regulations can significantly strengthen your claim.
Successfully pursuing a dog bite claim in Flushing involves proving elements like ownership, negligence, and the extent of your injuries and damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Navigating these complexities can feel overwhelming, especially while recovering from a traumatic injury. The experienced dog bite attorneys at The Orlow Firm can guide you every step of the way, ensuring you understand your rights and maximize your compensation.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks
Dog bites can result in far more than surface wounds. Victims—especially children and older adults—often suffer serious, sometimes permanent, physical and emotional harm. At The Orlow Firm, we’ve represented Flushing residents facing a wide range of injuries caused by dog attacks, including:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations: Deep bites can damage muscles, tendons, and nerves, often requiring stitches or reconstructive surgery. Learn more about lacerations and scarring.
- Broken bones: Victims may suffer fractures from being knocked down or bitten with enough force. Visit our page on broken bones to understand how these injuries are handled in personal injury claims.
- Infections: Dog saliva can carry bacteria such as Capnocytophaga or MRSA, leading to serious infections if not treated quickly.
- Nerve damage: Bites to the face, hands, or limbs can cause lasting nerve damage, affecting mobility and sensation.
- Facial injuries and disfigurement: Particularly devastating in children, facial wounds often require multiple surgeries and leave lasting psychological scars.
- Emotional trauma: Many victims—especially children—experience anxiety, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress. Learn more about how emotional distress can factor into your claim.
These injuries often require extensive treatment, long-term care, and emotional support. If you or a loved one is coping with the aftermath of a dog bite, our Flushing dog bite lawyers will fight to ensure you receive full compensation for both your physical and psychological injuries.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite Incident in Flushing
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can protect your health, preserve your legal rights, and strengthen your case. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Flushing, here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if the bite seems minor, infections and complications can develop quickly. Visit an emergency room or a local facility such as NewYork-Presbyterian Queens or CityMD Flushing Urgent Care. - Report the Incident
File a report with the NYPD’s 109th Precinct or contact NYC Animal Care and Control. An official report creates a vital record for your case. - Document Everything
Take photos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog if possible. Record the date, time, and exact circumstances of the incident. - Get Witness Information
If anyone saw the attack, collect their names and contact details. Witness statements can be crucial in establishing liability. - Identify the Dog and Owner
Try to confirm the dog’s vaccination history and the owner’s identity. This information is essential for both medical treatment and legal action. - Avoid Contact with Insurance Adjusters
Do not speak to the dog owner’s insurance company before consulting an attorney. They may try to get you to accept a low settlement or admit fault. - Contact a Flushing Dog Bite Lawyer
Speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. At The Orlow Firm, we’ll help preserve evidence, handle communications, and begin building your claim right away.
Prompt action can make a major difference in your recovery and your ability to secure fair compensation. Our team is here to protect your rights from day one.
Who Is Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in Flushing?
Determining liability in a dog bite case is essential to recovering compensation. In Flushing, the primary party held responsible is typically the dog’s owner. However, depending on the circumstances, other individuals or entities may also share legal responsibility.
Primary Liable Parties:
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Dog Owners: Owners can be held liable if they knew the dog had vicious tendencies or failed to follow leash laws or containment rules. Even without a prior bite, negligence—such as letting a dog roam without restraint—can establish fault.
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Landlords: If a landlord knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to act, they might share liability—especially in multi-unit buildings.
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Property Owners or Managers: If a dog bite occurs on commercial property, the property owner or manager may be liable for not enforcing safety policies or removing a known threat.
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Dog Walkers or Caretakers: In some cases, the person responsible for the dog at the time of the attack—such as a walker, sitter, or groomer—may be held accountable if they failed to control the animal properly.
Proving Liability:
To hold someone legally responsible, your legal team must typically show:
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The defendant owned or controlled the dog
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The defendant knew or should have known the dog was dangerous, or
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The defendant acted negligently, violating local leash or control laws
If you’re unsure who may be legally at fault, The Orlow Firm can investigate and identify all responsible parties. We also navigate comparative negligence issues, which may affect your compensation if the defense claims you provoked the animal.
Our attorneys know how to hold dog owners and other negligent parties accountable under both state law and New York City’s local codes. We’re here to ensure that every liable party is pursued so you can recover the full compensation you’re entitled to. Learn more about premises liability and how it may apply in your case.
How The Orlow Firm Can Help You Win Your Dog Bite Claim
Pursuing a dog bite injury claim in Flushing isn’t just about proving who was at fault—it’s about maximizing your recovery, navigating legal hurdles, and holding negligent parties accountable. That’s where The Orlow Firm comes in.
What We Do for You
- Thorough Investigation
We gather critical evidence, including surveillance footage, medical records, witness statements, and prior complaints about the dog or owner. We also investigate potential violations of local leash or housing laws. - Clear Legal Strategy
Every case is different. We tailor a legal strategy that fits your situation—whether it’s negotiating with an insurance company, pursuing a settlement, or taking the case to trial. - Aggressive Insurance Negotiation
Insurance companies often try to minimize or deny valid dog bite claims. We push back hard, using medical evidence, case law, and legal precedent to demand full and fair compensation. - Maximizing All Forms of Compensation
We fight to recover all available damages—medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even loss of consortium when applicable. - No Fee Unless We Win
You don’t pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we recover money for you. - Culturally Sensitive and Local Representation
Flushing is one of the most diverse communities in Queens. We offer multilingual support and understand how to advocate for clients from all backgrounds with dignity and respect.
With over four decades of experience and deep roots in the Queens legal community, The Orlow Firm has built a reputation for tough advocacy and successful results. We know what it takes to win dog bite cases in Flushing—and we’re ready to do it for you.
Compensation Available in Dog Bite Cases
A dog bite injury can lead to a wide range of physical, emotional, and financial burdens. At The Orlow Firm, we work tirelessly to ensure that every client receives the full compensation they’re entitled to—both for immediate costs and long-term impacts.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To:
- Medical Expenses
Coverage for emergency room visits, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, follow-up care, and physical therapy. Learn more about what medical expenses are covered. - Lost Wages
If your injuries caused you to miss work, you may be eligible for reimbursement of your current and future lost income. See our guide to lost wages in personal injury cases. - Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort you’ve endured. This includes both the initial trauma and ongoing suffering. Explore how pain and suffering damages are evaluated. - Emotional Distress
Dog attacks can cause lasting psychological injuries, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression—especially in children. These emotional harms are compensable under New York law. Learn more about emotional distress claims. - Disfigurement or Scarring
Visible scars, particularly on the face, can lead to social, psychological, and professional consequences that justify additional damages. - Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care
If you need ongoing medical support, surgeries, or home health assistance, these costs can be included in your claim. - Loss of Enjoyment of Life
When your injuries prevent you from engaging in daily activities, hobbies, or time with family, you may be entitled to damages for loss of enjoyment of life. - Loss of Consortium
In severe cases, spouses may also pursue compensation for the loss of companionship, intimacy, or shared responsibilities. Learn more about loss of consortium.
Our attorneys at The Orlow Firm thoroughly assess the full scope of your losses so that no category of compensation is overlooked. We fight for more than just your recovery—we fight for your future.
Proven Results for Victims in Queens
At The Orlow Firm, our commitment to dog bite victims goes beyond promises—we deliver real results. Over the decades, we’ve recovered millions for injury victims across Queens. While each case is unique, our history of success shows our dedication to achieving justice for our clients. Some of our relevant victories include:
- $900,000 for a woman who was sexually assaulted by the superintendent of her building—showcasing our experience in handling emotionally traumatic premises liability cases.
- $800,000 for a woman who slipped and fell due to poor property maintenance, resulting in serious neck and back injuries. This case, like many dog bite incidents, centered on a property owner’s failure to ensure safety.
- $325,000 for a postal worker who was injured due to unsafe property conditions—similar to the liability issues often involved in dog attack cases.
These outcomes demonstrate our ability to hold property owners, landlords, and negligent individuals accountable—key elements in many dog bite cases.
Whether your injury occurred in a Flushing park, a residential complex, or on a city sidewalk, we understand how to build strong cases that secure maximum compensation. When you hire The Orlow Firm, you’re not just hiring lawyers—you’re hiring proven advocates with a track record of results.
Why Flushing Residents Trust The Orlow Firm
Choosing the right attorney after a dog bite isn’t just about legal knowledge—it’s about finding someone who understands your community, listens to your concerns, and is committed to your recovery. At The Orlow Firm, Flushing residents turn to us because we offer all of that and more.
What Sets Us Apart
- Over 40 Years of Experience
Since 1982, we’ve helped injury victims throughout Queens secure justice. Our experience includes hundreds of successful outcomes in complex premises liability and dog bite cases. - Local Knowledge of Flushing
We know Flushing’s neighborhoods—from bustling Main Street and Northern Boulevard to the quiet residential areas of Murray Hill and Auburndale. This local insight helps us investigate incidents more effectively and gather key evidence specific to the location of your attack. - Family-Owned, Client-Focused
As a family-run firm, we treat every client with respect, compassion, and care. You’re never just a case number. You’ll work directly with partners Brian and Adam Orlow, who are dedicated to making sure you’re informed and empowered throughout your case. - Multilingual and Culturally Sensitive Representation
Flushing is one of the most diverse communities in New York City. Our team provides multilingual support and understands the cultural nuances that can affect communication and trust. We’re proud to serve clients of all backgrounds with dignity. - No Fees Unless We Win
You don’t need to worry about legal bills. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we secure compensation on your behalf. - Proven Results
Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve recovered millions for clients injured due to negligence—including those hurt by dangerous dogs and negligent property owners.
Flushing residents trust The Orlow Firm because we combine deep legal expertise with a genuine commitment to community and client care. When your future is on the line, we’re the firm you can count on to fight for what you deserve.
FAQs About Dog Bite Claims in Flushing, NY
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in New York?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the claim involves a city agency (such as a public housing authority), you may need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days. To avoid losing your right to compensation, speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Even if the dog has no prior history of aggression, you may still have a case. If the owner was negligent—such as violating leash laws—or if the dog was known to behave aggressively (growling, lunging, etc.), they can still be held liable under New York law.
Can I get compensation if I was partly at fault?
Yes. New York follows the rule of comparative negligence, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially to blame. However, your total compensation may be reduced in proportion to your share of fault.
Will the dog be euthanized if I report the bite?
Not necessarily. Reporting a dog bite to NYC Health or Animal Care and Control is important for public safety, but it doesn’t automatically result in euthanasia. The city will evaluate the situation and determine next steps based on the dog’s behavior and history.
What if I was bitten on someone else’s property?
You may be able to file a premises liability claim if the property owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack. This is common in apartment complexes, stores, or rental homes where dangerous dogs are allowed to roam freely.
Can I sue for emotional trauma after a dog bite?
Yes. Emotional distress is often a valid component of your damages—especially if the bite resulted in disfigurement, PTSD, or severe anxiety, particularly in children.
How much does it cost to hire The Orlow Firm?
Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you.
If you have more questions about your rights or potential compensation, don’t hesitate to contact The Orlow Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Local Resources for Dog Bite Victims in Flushing
If you’ve been injured by a dog in Flushing, getting the right medical care and reporting the incident promptly are essential steps. Below are helpful local resources for medical treatment, law enforcement, and community support.
Hospitals & Urgent Care
NewYork-Presbyterian Queens
56-45 Main Street
Flushing, NY 11355
(718) 670-2000
https://www.nyp.org/queens
CityMD Flushing Urgent Care
136-57 Roosevelt Avenue
Flushing, NY 11354
(718) 571-9331
https://www.citymd.com/urgent-care-locations/ny/flushing/136-57-roosevelt-avenue
Police & Animal Control
NYPD 109th Precinct
37-05 Union Street
Flushing, NY 11354
(718) 321-2250
https://www.nyc.gov/site/nypd/bureaus/patrol/precincts/109th-precinct.page
NYC Animal Care & Control – Queens
92-29 Queens Blvd
Rego Park, NY 11374
(212) 788-4000
https://www.nycacc.org
Courts
Queens County Supreme Court
88-11 Sutphin Blvd
Jamaica, NY 11435
(718) 298-1000
https://ww2.nycourts.gov/courts/11jd/supreme/civil/index.shtml
Queens Civil Court
89-17 Sutphin Blvd
Jamaica, NY 11435
(718) 262-7100
https://www.nycourts.gov/courts/nyc/civil/queens.shtml
Community Support & Services
Flushing YMCA
138-46 Northern Blvd
Flushing, NY 11354
(718) 551-9350
https://ymcanyc.org/locations/flushing-ymca
Queens Community House
108-25 62nd Drive
Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 592-5757
https://www.qchnyc.org
These resources can help you get immediate medical care, file a police report, and access community services during your recovery. If you’re unsure where to start, The Orlow Firm is here to help guide you and connect you with the services you need.
Contact Our Flushing Dog Bite Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial strain can be overwhelming—but help is just a phone call away.
At The Orlow Firm, we provide compassionate, client-focused legal representation backed by over 40 years of success in personal injury law. Our experienced Flushing dog bite lawyers understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to holding negligent dog owners accountable. Whether your injuries are minor or life-altering, we fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to review your case and answer your questions. You won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
📞 Call (646) 647-3398 today to schedule your free consultation
Let The Orlow Firm help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
