Dog Bite Attorney
A dog attack can result in gruesome injuries. New Jersey holds a dog owner liable for all of the damages inflicted upon a dog bite victim. See N.J.S.A. 4:19-16.
To recover in New Jersey the victim must prove:
- The defendant owned the dog,
- The dog bit the victim, and
- The victim was in a public place or lawfully on the owner’s property
New Jersey is a Strict Liability State. This means that it does not matter whether the dog attacked you or has a history of aggression or not. In most cases the homeowner’s policy of the dog’s owner will cover dog bite injuries. This means that you will not be seeking money damages directly from a friend or neighbor, but from their insurance company.
If you are bitten by a dog, seek medical attention immediately. Even a small bite can become infected and cause serious health problems. In addition, report the incident to your local animal control agency.
Legal Consequences of Dog Bites
In addition to the physical and emotional harm caused by dog bites, there may also be legal consequences for the dog owner. In New Jersey, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous. This means that the victim of a dog bite can sue the dog owner for damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it is important to speak to a personal injury attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options. Gale & Laughlin, LLP. can help you negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Effective Legal Counsel
We are committed to helping you get the recovery that you deserve. For decades our firm has been helping the injured through Monmouth County, Ocean County and Middlesex County. Contact our offices today or call us with any questions you may have: 732-264-6000.
