How a New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyer Can Fight for Your Rights
When a dog bite incident occurs, it can be physically and emotionally distressing, often leaving the victim unsure of how to proceed. Many people don’t realize the legal rights they have when injured by a dog, nor are they familiar with New Jersey’s dog bite laws and the protections they afford. From ensuring you receive fair compensation to helping you navigate complex legal pathways, a New Jersey dog bite lawyer is your strongest ally in securing justice. A lawyer will be your advocate, guiding you through each step, from initial consultation to potential trial. They can help you secure the compensation you deserve and protect your future.
What are Dog Bite Laws in NJ?
Two legal theories in New Jersey can be used to pursue dog bite claims. Dog bite laws in NJ have strict liability laws for dog bites.
- Scope of Liability: As per NJSA 4:19-16, strict liability applies to dog claims in the state, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous or if the dog had never previously displayed this kind of behavior.
- Strict Liability: If a dog bites someone while they are legally on private property or in a public place, the owner is usually held liable.
- Negligence: Negligence may result in legal responsibility for a dog attack in New Jersey. It is necessary to prove that the person or organization against whom you are bringing a claim owes the victim a legal obligation to keep them safe and secure.
What are the Common Injuries of Dog Bites?
The majority of dog bites result in severe suffering, a long recovery period, and expensive medical expenses. Based on personal injury laws New Jersey, a lawyer can hold the owner liable for the injuries and seek compensation for the damages.
- Bone Fractures: Bone fractures from dog bites can occur in the arms, hands, feet, or legs. In some severe cases, a victim may suffer skull and vertebrae fractures.
- Eye Injuries: Dog owners are liable for eye injuries such as hemorrhaging, corneal abrasions, orbital fractures, and other eye damage.
- Nerve Damages: If the dog’s bite damages nerves, it can lead to chronic pain or even loss of function in certain areas of the body.
Emotional Trauma: Dog attacks often result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or fear of dogs, which can impact a victim’s daily life.
What is the Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries in NJ?
If you’re seeking compensation for a dog bite in NJ, a New Jersey dog bite lawyer can pursue different forms of compensation on your behalf, including:
- Medical Expenses: Your lawyer will cover costs related to emergency care, surgery, medications, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages: A dog bite lawyer New Jersey will seek compensation for the missed work due to the injury or necessary recovery time.
- Emotional Distress: Your attorney will also work to seek compensation for the non-economic damages. Non-economic damages that acknowledge the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the dog bite.
- Rehabilitation Costs: A New Jersey dog bite attorney will negotiate with the prosecution to seek compensation for physical therapy and psychological counseling.
How Does a New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyer Build Your Case?
Investigation
- Our lawyer will thoroughly investigate the incident, examining the circumstances around the bite.
- A dog bite lawyer in New Jersey will identify strengths and weaknesses in your case to hold the owner liable for the incident.
Gather Evidence
- A lawyer will gather evidence such as witness statements, photographs, and medical records to build a strong defense.
Compensation
- Your personal injury lawyer will calculate the financial damages and ensure that you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Insurance Companies
- A lawyer will handle all communications, negotiations, and paperwork with the insurance provider to protect you from being under-compensated.
Legal Representation
- While many cases settle outside of court, a dog bite lawyer New Jersey is prepared to represent you at trial if a fair settlement isn’t reached.
- A lawyer dog bite case specialist will present your claim persuasively to demonstrate the impact of the injury on your life.
With over 50 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys at The Law Offices of SRIS, PC, bring unparalleled knowledge and competence to every case. Their legal knowledge will protect your rights as they support you through the court system. You don’t need to worry about your legal proceedings or charges because of their understanding and knowledge.
A New Jersey dog bite lawyer can be your greatest advocate, handling all aspects of your case while you focus on recovery. From dealing with unyielding insurance companies to holding negligent owners accountable, a lawyer’s support can be transformative. And, if a dangerous product contributed to the bite, New Jersey’s dangerous product laws can provide additional avenues for justice. Don’t let a dog bite injury disrupt your life; seek legal help and stand up for your rights. Contact us.
FAQ’s:
Yes, under New Jersey's strict liability law, it doesn't matter if the dog has no history of aggression. The dog's owner can still be held responsible for your injuries, even if it was the first bite incident.
After a dog bite, seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries. Document the injury, gather information from the dog's owner, and report the incident to local authorities. Contacting a New Jersey dog bite lawyer as soon as possible can also help protect your rights.
Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any future treatment costs associated with the injury. A dog bite lawyer in New Jersey can assess your case and help maximize the compensation you may be entitled to.
If a defective product, such as a faulty leash or collar, contributed to the dog bite incident, New Jersey dangerous product laws may hold the manufacturer liable. This could apply if the product's failure directly caused or exacerbated the injury, allowing for additional claims.
Yes, a New Jersey dog bite attorney can manage all communication and negotiations with insurance companies. This ensures that your case is presented accurately, protects you from low settlement offers, and helps secure a fair resolution.
Many dog bite lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. During an initial consultation, the lawyer will explain their fee structure, so you have a clear understanding of any potential costs.
