If you are bitten and injured by a dog, you have a right to bring a claim against the owner of the dog. Often the dog owner’s homeowners insurance policy or renters insurance policy will cover the claim for injuries sustained by a dog bite. New Jersey is a “strict liability” state with respect to dog bite injuries. This means that a dog owner is legally liable for all of the damages inflicted upon a dog bite victim, even if the dog had never previously exhibited the propensity to bite humans.
In addition to bringing a claim against the owner of a dog, you may also have a right to sue others that may be negligent and responsible for the incident. Examples of liability to others besides the owner of the dog are found in the following examples: someone besides the owner who was taking care of and had control over the dog; a landlord who knew the dog was dangerous but didn’t do anything about it; a property owner that was negligent in not removing someone else’s dog.
Dog bites can often result in serious injuries such as lacerations, nerve damage and disfigurement. Dog bite injuries may require immediate medical care, ongoing treatment and therapy, and counseling due to the psychological trauma that typically is associated with a dog bite. The medical costs associated with dog bites can be very high but may also be covered under health insurance or Medicare. Financial compensation for expenses, as well as pain and suffering, and scars or disfigurement, can be achieved in many cases through a recovery paid by the homeowners or renters insurance company of the dog owner.
Contact Us
If you have suffered any dog bite injuries, we can help. For a free initial consultation with a New Jersey injury lawyer, contact us by e-mail or call our offices, in New Brunswick at 732-247-3600 or in Somerville at 908-448-2560.
