November 29, 2024
ShareKelley Kronenberg Secures Summary Judgment in High Exposure Dog Bite Case
Kelley Kronenberg Partner/Business Unit Leader Andrew Labbe recently secured a significant victory in Orange County, New York, obtaining summary judgment in a case with an estimated exposure of $500,000.00 plus attorneys’ fees and costs.
The plaintiffs filed suit against the firm’s clients following an incident where a minor was bitten by the defendants’ dog. The plaintiffs alleged negligence and sought substantial monetary damages.
Drawing on his extensive experience in general liability defense, Andrew built a compelling case around New York’s established precedent regarding dog bite liability. Under New York law, dog owners can only be held liable if they knew or should have known about their pet’s vicious propensities. Through detailed deposition testimony, Andrew established that the defendants’ dog had no prior history of aggressive behavior. Additionally, the evidence showed the minor had entered the defendants’ backyard without their knowledge or permission prior to the incident.
The plaintiffs were unable to present any evidence demonstrating the dog’s prior vicious tendencies or establishing that the incident resulted from any negligent actions by the defendants. Based on the clear factual record and applicable law, the Court granted summary judgment in favor of both defendants, resulting in a complete dismissal of the case.
Through strategic litigation and thorough case development, Andrew secured an efficient resolution that protected the firm’s clients from substantial exposure.
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