Fighting for Justice After a Dog Bite Injury
Injured by a dog bite in New York? Sullivan Papain can now pursue your case under new negligence laws following the landmark Flanders v. Goodfellow decision. Contact us today for a free consultation.
New Legal Opportunities for Dog Bite Victims in New York
A groundbreaking decision by the New York Court of Appeals in Flanders v. Goodfellow (April 17, 2025) has changed the landscape for dog bite injury cases. For over a century, victims could only seek compensation if the dog’s owner knew or should have known of the animal’s “vicious propensities.” Now, thanks to this unanimous ruling, you can pursue a claim based on common-law negligence—a lower bar that holds owners accountable for failing to exercise reasonable care.
At Sullivan Papain, our experienced personal injury attorneys are ready to help you navigate this new legal terrain. Whether you’ve suffered a dog bite or other animal-related injury, we can pursue justice under both strict liability and negligence theories to maximize your recovery.
Get a Free Consultation
Why Choose Sullivan Papain?
- Proven Expertise: Decades of success in personal injury cases, including complex animal bite claims.
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs, offering compassionate and personalized legal support.
- No Fees Unless We Win: You pay nothing upfront—our fees come from your settlement or verdict.
- Up-to-Date Knowledge: Our team is at the forefront of legal changes, including the new Flanders v. Goodfellow ruling.
How the New Ruling Affects Your Case
The Flanders v. Goodfellow decision allows victims to hold dog owners liable if they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. This opens the door for claims involving:
- Unleashed or unrestrained dogs in public spaces
- Failure to secure a dog during deliveries or visits
- Negligent supervision of a dog around strangers
- Other careless actions that lead to bites or injuries
Our attorneys will evaluate your case to determine the best legal strategy, whether it’s strict liability, negligence, or both.
Contact Sullivan Papain Today
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, don’t wait. Let Sullivan Papain fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us or fill out the form below for a free, no-obligation consultation.