How Can Dog Bite Victims Obtain Compensation in New Jersey?

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Although dogs are beloved family pets who are usually friendly, some still attack. It’s important to remember that these loyal companions are still only animals, and they may react instinctively or aggressively to specific situations or even attack without provocation. Unfortunately, a dog bite can lead to serious physical injuries and lasting psychological trauma. As such, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights. Many dog bite victims don’t know how to proceed or if they are entitled to compensation for the damages they have endured. If a canine has seriously injured you, it’s in your best interest to contact a dedicated Morris County Dog Bite Accident Attorney who can help you hold the owner accountable for their negligence and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Please continue reading to learn about New Jersey’s dog bite laws. 

What Should Dog Bite Victims Do After an Injury in New Jersey?

Dog bites often result in devastating physical, emotional, and financial burdens. As such, understanding what steps to take following the injury is crucial. After being bitten by a dog, you should immediately apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding. From here, you should clean the wound thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water. This can help prevent an infection from setting in. You should seek medical attention immediately, especially if the bite is deep. You should go to the emergency room if the injury requires immediate medical attention.

If the dog’s owner is present at the time of the attack, you should get their contact information, as well as the contact information of any other witnesses. If possible, determine if the dog is current on all their vaccinations, including when their last rabies shot was. This is particularly important if you haven’t had a tetanus shot within the previous ten years, as you may need one within 72 hours of the bite. After you inquire about their immunizations, it’s beneficial to file a report with your local police department or animal control agency. However, the most crucial step you can take after seeking medical care is enlisting the help of an experienced dog bite attorney who can help you navigate your legal options.

What Damages Can a Victim Seek?

Under New Jersey law, dog owners are strictly liable for their dogs’ actions. This means that regardless of a dog’s history, the owner will be held responsible for the injuries their animal has caused. It’s important to note that there are exceptions to this strict liability rule. If the dog was provoked in any way, the owner may not be found liable for your damages. This means as long as you did not provoke the dog or trespass on private property, you can file a personal injury claim against the owner to seek compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages represent tangible losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, represent subjective losses that are more difficult to quantify, such as emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

At Lutz Injury Law, we will help you fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your damages. Our dedicated team is prepared to help you fulfill the burden of proof. Contact us today to learn how we can help you during these difficult times.

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