Sussex County Dog Bite Attorneys
New Jersey lawyers help victims of animal attacks obtain compensation
Dog bite injuries can be both physically and emotionally traumatic. If you've been hurt by a dog in North Jersey, it's crucial to understand your legal rights and the steps you should take to seek compensation. At Hollander, Strelzik, Pasculli, Vandenberg, Hontz & Associates LLC, our personal injury attorneys have abundant experience in dog bite cases. When an attack causes serious harm, you can rely on the experienced Sussex County dog bite attorneys at our firm to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
New Jersey dog bite laws
New Jersey is a strict liability state for dog bites, so owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, regardless of whether the animal had a history of aggression or whether the owner was negligent. The law applies to public and private spaces, meaning that even if the bite occurs on in the defendant’s home, he or she can still be held accountable. However, there are exceptions. If the injured person provoked the dog or was trespassing on the owner’s property, the dog owner might not be held liable. For example, someone who was not allowed to be on a construction site likely would not collect damages if they were attacked by the guard dog.
Common dog bite injuries in North Jersey
Dog bites can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe, such as:
- Lacerations and punctures —These are the most typical bite injuries, often requiring stitches or medical treatment to avoid infection.
- Infections — Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the wound, requiring antibiotics or more serious treatments.
- Scarring — Deep bites may produce permanent disfigurement that can trigger additional emotional harm.
- Fractures — Violent attacks by large dogs can break bones.
- Nerve damage — Severe bites, especially to the hands or face, are capable of inflicting nerve damage, which can have long-term consequences.
- Emotional trauma — Dog bite victims may suffer from anxiety, PTSD or phobias related to dogs, significantly affecting their quality of life.
We work diligently so that victims receive compensation that addresses the full extent of their injuries.
Proving liability in a New Jersey dog bite case
To recover compensation in court for a dog bite in New Jersey, you must establish these elements:
- Ownership — The defendant must be the owner or caretaker of the dog.
- Injury — Medical records, photographs and testimony from healthcare professionals can verify the harm that occurred.
- Victim’s lawful conduct — You must show you did not provoke the dog and that you were lawfully on the premises where the bite occurred.
Witnesses, surveillance footage and medical testimony can play a crucial role in proving liability in a dog bite case.
Compensation for a dog bite injury in NJ
If you are injured by a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Scarring or disfigurement
In rare cases of a dog owner’s egregious conduct, a court can also award punitive damages.
The legal process for filing a dog bite lawsuit
The legal process for filing a dog bite lawsuit in New Jersey typically involves several steps, such as:
- Consulting a lawyer — Our Sussex County personal injury lawyers can evaluate your case and advise on the best course of action.
- Gathering evidence — We investigate and assemble the necessary evidence, including medical records, witness testimony and any relevant photos or video footage.
- Filing a claim — Plaintiffs must file a lawsuit within the two-year statute of limitations, but prompt filing makes it easier to locate key evidence and witnesses.
Most cases settle prior to trial, but if your case goes to court, we will present a persuasive argument on your behalf.
Contact an experienced North Jersey attorney if you were harmed by a dog
Hollander, Strelzik, Pasculli, Vandenberg, Hontz & Associates LLC, with offices in Newton and Succasunna, represents victims of dog attacks throughout New Jersey. To schedule a consultation, please call 973-737-1023 or contact us online.
