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.
Who should I contact after a dog bite injury?
Start making some phone calls following the incident. Here’s who to reach out to:
- Hospital or urgent care: Seek immediate medical attention to clean and dress the wound.
- Police: Report the incident to the police to file a report.
- Animal control: If the dog is running free, contact Animal Control.
- Dog’s owner: If the owner is present, get their name, phone number, and insurance information. Be aware that most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies cover dog bites under the personal liability section.
- Dog bite attorney: Get your claim started by contacting a seasoned dog bite lawyer as soon as possible.
How do I prove that the owner is liable?
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:
- The defendant owns the dog.
- The dog bite occurred on public property or while the victim was lawfully on private property.
- The dog caused the injury in question.
What will happen to the dog if I file a claim?
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.
How much can I recover from my dog bite injury claim?
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:
- Medical bills (past, present, and future)
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Mental anguish, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress resulting from the attack
How long will my dog bite case take?
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.
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