Jogging is supposed to be an activity that provides health benefits. That can change quickly if the person exercising is attacked by someone else’s pet. While New Jersey law allows victims to seek relief from dog owners, there are some legal distinctions depending on the specific type of attack. 

In Westfield, a woman was running on Maryland Street when a German Shepherd started chasing her, causing her to fall several times as she tried to get away. After being treated at the scene, the victim was taken to the hospital. When a dog bites someone in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on someone’s private property, state law imposes strict liability on the animal’s owner. This means that a plaintiff can recover personal injury damages even if the person who owned the dog did nothing wrong and was not aware of their pet’s dangerous tendencies.

Conversely, in cases where a dog hurts a victim by knocking them down or doing something else besides biting them, the victim must prove that the owner was negligent. It might be shown that a defendant failed to use reasonable care by letting their dog run without a leash or by ignoring known behavioral risks. Evidence such as eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, prior complaints and veterinary or municipal records can be crucial in establishing fault.

Insurance coverage often plays a key role in legal claims stemming from dog bites and other types of pet attacks. Homeowners’ and renters’ liability policies frequently compensate victims, but some insurers refuse to write policies for owners of German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Pit Bulls or other breeds they categorize as dangerous. Alternatively, policyholders with these dogs could have to pay higher premiums.  

If you or a loved one was injured in an incident involving someone else’s dog, there are steps you should take in order to maximize your chances to receive fair compensation. Get medical care as soon as possible and report the incident to police or animal control. Take photographs of the scene and your injuries. Should the animal’s owner be present, get their contact information. As soon as possible, reach out to a qualified lawyer. 

Hollander, Strelzik, Pasculli, Vandenberg, Hontz & Associates, LLC advocates for New Jersey clients in personal injury claims stemming from dog attacks and other incidents. For a consultation, please call 973-737-1023 or contact us online. We have locations in Newton and Succasunna.