Dog Bite Laws You Need to Know
Most people aren’t aware of New Jersey’s dog bite laws until they’re the victim of a dog bite or their dog bites someone. Here are a few New Jersey dog bite laws you should know:
New Jersey is a Strict Liability State
New Jersey is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. This means that you don’t have to prove liability if someone’s dog bites you. In most personal injury cases, you must prove that the responsible person was negligent. In a dog bite case, you don’t. The dog’s owner is responsible if their dog bites anyone on public property.
Victims Can Recover Both Economic and Non-Economic Costs
A dog bite victim can recover both economic and non-economic costs. This means that they may be eligible to recover medical bills, lost wages, property damages, and pain and suffering costs. The specific costs awarded to a dog bite victim vary, depending on the case. The extent of the injuries and how long they last will also affect the compensation amount.
New Jersey Follows Comparative Negligence Laws
New Jersey is also a comparative negligence state. This means that they recognize that more than one person may be at fault, even when a dog bite occurs. For example, a person who provokes a dog may still be eligible to file a dog bite case against the owner, but their compensation amount may be reduced by a percentage.
The Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites is Two Years
Dog bite victims have just two years from the date of the bite to file a case. While this may seem like a lot of time, it goes by fast. The time surrounding a dog bite can be hectic with medical procedures and police reports. Additionally, if you wait too long to file a case, you may lose valuable time-sensitive information you need to build your case.
Dog Bite? What Are Your Options?
Your options following a dog bite depend on the severity of the bite and its costs. For example, if a dog nips you, it’s possible that you may need a medical check-up, but it shouldn’t affect your ability to work. Depending on who the dog’s owner is, they may offer to cover these costs. Some dog bites can be much more extreme and lead to ongoing medical care and time off from work.
In this case, working with a dog bite lawyer may be the best choice to ensure you get the funds you need. Additionally, if the dog’s owner tries to blame you or minimize your injuries, you may need to work with a dog bite lawyer.
Where the dog bite occurs will also make a difference in the details of your case. Some dog owners may file a claim with their insurance company if the dog bite occurs while at home. However, this may not be possible if the dog bites someone while out on public property.
Either way, it’s important to ensure that any amount you receive appropriately covers your damages. Some dog bite costs may extend into the future, affecting your ability to work.
Contact a Camden County Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Dog Bite Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a dog bite in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Gelman Law, LLC represent clients injured because of a dog bite in Voorhees, Medford, Moorestown, Cherry Hill, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 861-4236 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation about your work injury case. Our main office is located at 850 Rt 70 West
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
