If you or your child has been attacked and injured by a dog, you may wonder if you are entitled to compensation from the animal’s owner. In most cases, the answer is yes. Here are some frequently asked questions victims have about navigating a dog bite case and recovering the most money possible.
Start making some phone calls following the incident. Here’s who to reach out to:
New Jersey’s “strict liability” dog bite law states that if a dog attacks someone, the owner is liable for the resulting injuries. As an injured victim, it’s your job to prove the following:
If the dog has bitten someone before, the law may require the animal to be confined or euthanized. But in most cases, the owner receives a citation and is held responsible for the animal’s behavior. Don’t let anxiety about the dog’s potential fate prevent you from seeking compensation for your pain and suffering.
The amount awarded in your case largely depends on the severity of the injury, which you can demonstrate by photographing the wound throughout the healing process. The types of damages you can fight for include:
This largely depends on the defendant. If they wish to settle out of court, your case may wrap up in as little as a few weeks. But if the defendant contests the claim and takes it to court, the process could take months or even years to finalize.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, speak with an experienced dog bite lawyer in New Jersey to begin building your case. With over 70 years of experience, we are confident we can get you the compensation you deserve. Call us at 862-263-0770 or contact us online to schedule your free, one-hour consultation. A Spanish translator is available upon request.