When you see a dog, you may not even consider the possibility that they may attack you. But unfortunately, dog attacks do occur, and oftentimes without provocation. In the United States, there are reports of close to five million dog bites per year, with more than 800,000 requiring medical attention and hospitalization. So if you find yourself suffering from lasting physical and emotional injuries, read on to discover how New Jersey dog bite laws can work in your favor and how a seasoned Morris County dog bite accident attorney at Lutz Injury Law can help you recover the compensation that you require to heal.
What are New Jersey’s dog bite laws?
With dog bite accidents occurring far too often, the state of New Jersey has instilled laws to protect victims of dog attacks. More specifically, the law declares that it is the dog owner’s responsibility to pay for any damages that their dog caused. Regardless of whether the dog has never bitten anyone before, the dog owner is still liable for your injuries so long as the following points are true:
- The dog bite or attack happened on public property.
- The dog bite or attack occurred on private property, and you were there legally.
Importantly, your dog bite claim will likely be paid from the dog owner’s homeowners insurance policy. So if the dog owner fails to file a claim with their insurance company, then you will need to seek legal counsel immediately.
What are my options after a dog bite injury in New Jersey?
Nonetheless, if you were bitten or attacked by a dog, then you may be entitled to financial compensation for the injuries and burdens you sustained. Such injuries and burdens may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Torn skin.
- Torn tendons and muscles.
- Lasting nerve damage.
- Serious disfiguring scarring.
- Broken bones.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder.
This is why with dog bites often resulting in serious physical, emotional, and financial burdens, you can fight to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Examples of the two may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Economic damages:
- Medical bills.
- Lost wages.
- Lost earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages:
- Emotional distress.
- Pain and suffering.
- Diminished quality of life.
That said, if you are suffering from any of the above, you cannot stand idly by. Rather, you must bring your dog bite injury claim forward. Do not hesitate in reaching out to a competent Morris County personal injury attorney who will stand by your side throughout the whole claims process.
CONTACT OUR MORRIS COUNTY FIRM
If you have been the victim of the negligence of another in an accident, please contact a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney at Lutz Injury Law as quickly as possible following the subject accident.