Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience. In addition to the physical pain, the emotional and psychological impact can be long-lasting. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in New Jersey, it’s important to seek legal help from an experienced NJ dog bite lawyer.
Problem: Dog Bites in New Jersey
Dog bites are more common than you might think, with nearly 5 million people in the United States bitten by dogs each year. In New Jersey alone, there were over 7,000 reported dog bites in 2019. These attacks can result in serious injuries, including puncture wounds, broken bones, and even disfigurement. In some cases, victims may require extensive medical treatment or even surgery to recover from their injuries.
Solution: NJ Dog Bite Lawyer
An NJ dog bite lawyer can help you seek justice for the injuries and damages resulting from a dog attack. They can assist you in filing a claim against the dog owner’s insurance company or pursuing legal action in court. With their expertise in personal injury law, they can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the attack.
What to do after a dog attack?
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Even if the wound doesn’t appear serious, it’s still important to have it cleaned and evaluated by a healthcare professional. You should also report the attack to the local animal control agency and police department. Finally, be sure to document the incident by taking photos of the injuries and identifying the dog and its owner if possible.
What is the statute of limitations for dog bite claims in NJ?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Jersey is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, it’s important to consult with an NJ dog bite lawyer to determine the specific deadlines and requirements for your case.
What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?
If the dog owner doesn’t have insurance or their insurance policy doesn’t cover the damages resulting from the attack, an NJ dog bite lawyer can help you explore other legal options, such as pursuing a lawsuit against the owner directly.
Can I sue for emotional damages?
Yes, you may be able to recover compensation for emotional damages resulting from a dog attack, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What if the dog was provoked?
Even if the dog was provoked, the owner is still responsible for the actions of their pet. However, the amount of compensation you may be able to recover may be reduced if you were found to have contributed to the attack.
How much does an NJ dog bite lawyer cost?
Most NJ dog bite lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive a settlement or win your case in court. The fee is typically a percentage of the amount recovered, usually around one-third.
Success Story
An NJ dog bite lawyer helped a client recover $200,000 in damages after being attacked by a neighbor’s dog. The victim suffered multiple wounds to their face and required extensive medical treatment. With the help of their lawyer, they were able to hold the dog owner accountable for their negligence and recover compensation for their damages.
FAQ
What is the one-bite rule?
The one-bite rule is a legal doctrine that states that a dog owner is not liable for damages resulting from a dog bite if they had no reason to know the dog was dangerous. In other words, the owner may be held liable if they knew or should have known the dog was prone to aggression or had previously bitten someone.
Can I file a claim if the dog was a police or military dog?
Yes, you may still be able to file a claim if you were bitten by a police or military dog. However, these cases can be more complex and may require the assistance of an experienced NJ dog bite lawyer.
What if the dog bite occurred on the owner’s property?
Even if the dog bite occurred on the owner’s property, they may still be liable for damages if they knew or should have known the dog was dangerous.
What if the dog was a stray?
If you were bitten by a stray dog, you may still be able to recover compensation for your damages. However, the process may be more difficult, as it can be harder to identify and locate the owner of the dog.
What if the dog was a service animal?
Service animals are specially trained to perform specific tasks for their owners and are generally not considered to be dangerous. However, if a service animal bites someone, the owner may still be liable for damages if they knew or should have known the animal was prone to aggression.
What if the dog attacked my pet?
If your pet was attacked by a dog, you may be able to recover compensation for your veterinary bills and other damages. An NJ dog bite lawyer can help you explore your legal options and pursue a claim against the dog owner.
Tips
If you encounter a dog that you think may be dangerous, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself. Avoid making direct eye contact with the dog, and try to stay calm and still. If the dog becomes aggressive, try to put an object between yourself and the dog, such as a jacket or backpack.
Summary
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in New Jersey, an NJ dog bite lawyer can help you seek justice and recover compensation for your damages. With their expertise in personal injury law, they can guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.