How to Recover Compensation Following a Dog Attack in New Jersey

Most people do not see a dog attack coming. Dogs are fast, athletic, and have a strong bite. Unfortunately, when owners do not train their dog or treat their dog poorly/maliciously, the dog may become angry and aggressive, and therefore prone to snapping at innocent people who just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Dog attacks are jarring, frightening, and painful incidents, which is why most people seek financial compensation to help them cope with their injuries. If you are now looking into recovering compensation, please read on and hire an experienced attorney to learn more about your legal options going forward:

How are people injured in dog attacks?

Some of the most common injuries sustained in dog attacks are as follows:

  • Head trauma
  • Permanent scarring
  • Lacerations
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Wrongful death

How do I sue a negligent dog owner?

New Jersey’s “vicious dog law” seeks to prevent dog attacks from occurring. Essentially, when a dog kills a domestic pet or attacks a person, the dog may be considered “vicious or potentially dangerous” under the law. If the court declares your dog is vicious, you may have to display “beware of dog” signs on your property, keep your dog locked in an enclosure, and obtain a license to continue owning the dog.

If your attorney can prove that you were attacked either while on public property or while you were lawfully on private property, you will most likely be entitled to financial compensation. However, if you were trespassing, taunting the dog, or provoked the attack, you may not recover compensation.

What should I do after being attacked by a dog?

The first thing you should do is call 911. The police will handle the situation and document the attack. Then, you will receive prompt medical attention, which you most likely need. From here, you should ask any witnesses of the attack for their contact information, and take pictures of your injuries, if possible. An experienced attorney will ensure you obtain all the necessary evidence to win your claim and recover the financial compensation you need to get back on your feet again. Do not wait. Reach out to our knowledgeable firm today.

Contact our experienced New Jersey firm

If you or someone you know was involved in an accident and wishes to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq.today. If you have sustained serious injuries due to another party’s negligence, there is no reason for you to suffer alone. The compensation you receive may cover the cost of your medical bills, lost wages and more. Do yourself a favor and let us work with you to attain the financial assistance you need.