Dog Bite FAQs and Legal Assistance in New Jersey

Contact Gelman Gelman Wiskow & McCarthy LLC Today

Although dogs provide companionship and protection, they can also cause serious injury or damage when they attack. Attacks happen when you least expect them, even with dogs you’ve been friendly around in the past. Owners are required to take certain steps to prevent their pets from injuring others. New Jersey holds dog owners liable for dog bite injuries sustained in public or lawfully in private places, including the dog owner’s property. Founded in 1950, Gelman Gelman Wiskow & McCarthy LLC is a seasoned dog bite law firm in New Jersey, with offices in Elmwood Park, Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, and Roseland. If you’ve been injured in an attack, let our knowledgeable, compassionate dog bite attorneys help you recover the damages. Contact us today to schedule a free one-hour initial consultation.

What Are the Most Common Dog Bite Injuries?

The legal definition of a dog bite injury is any wound caused when a dog’s mouth clamps around part of a person’s body. The injury does not have to be visible. Most dog attacks result in injuries to the victim’s arms, legs, or face. While dog bites and attacks vary, especially by the breed and size of the dog in relation to the victim, some of the most common injuries include bruises, cuts, gashes, lacerations, and puncture wounds. When vulnerable children or elderly adults are attacked, it often leads to broken bones, head trauma, eye injuries, internal injuries, infections, scarring, and even disfigurement.

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite or Attack?

Depending on the severity of the dog bite, you should seek medical attention immediately. If it’s safe for you to do so, take photos of your injuries. Be sure to file a written report with local law enforcement or animal control authorities. If you take the proper steps to document the attack and your medical care, you’ll increase your chances of being compensated fairly. Contact our dog bite attorneys in New Jersey for a free case evaluation to determine your eligibility for filing a personal injury claim after the attack.

What Happens to the Dog if I Report the Attack?

This largely depends on the dog’s history. If the dog has been deemed dangerous and has bitten more than one person, the law may require it to be put down or confined. However, it is far more likely that the owner will just receive a citation and will be held responsible for their dog’s behavior. In most circumstances, nothing bad will happen to the dog. You shouldn’t let feelings of anxiety or guilt about what will happen to the dog prevent you from seeking compensation for your pain and suffering.

Does Insurance Cover Dog Bite Injuries?

Some homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bites when the attacks occur on the insurer’s property. However, coverage will vary by policy and insurance carrier. Some insurance companies do not cover all dog breeds, especially those that are usually considered more dangerous, such as rottweilers or pitbulls. If their homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover it, Gelman Gelman Wiskow & McCarthy LLC can help you sue the negligent dog owner directly to recover compensation for your injuries. Our firm’s primary practice areas include personal injury claims, medical malpractice, workers’ compensation, and more.

What Type of Compensation Could I Receive After a Dog Bite?

Dog bite victims could be eligible for compensation for medical treatments, lost wages, property damages, and even mental anguish. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to dog bite injury cases. The amount awarded usually depends on the severity of your injuries. Many dog bite victims suffer beyond their physical injuries, with heightened anxiety, depression, phobias, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurring after the attack. The psychological effects and physical scarring from a dog bite could be permanent. Our team of accomplished New Jersey dog bite lawyers will help you pursue your rightful compensation for catastrophic injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. Although every case is unique and past verdicts and settlements are never a guarantee, you can feel confident in our skilled attorneys and their ability to represent you effectively and compassionately.

Have Additional Questions for Experienced Dog Bite Lawyers?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.5 million people are bitten or attacked by dogs annually. Nearly 50% of these victims are children. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog and would like to speak to an experienced dog bite lawyer in New Jersey, Gelman Gelman Wiskow & McCarthy LLC can help. Contact us today and schedule a free initial consultation to begin discussing the specifics of your case. For your convenience, we have offices in East Orange Office, Elmwood Park Office, Pompton Plains, and Avon by the Sea, with Spanish-speaking translators available by request.