If you were attacked by a dog, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and burdens. Continue reading and give our skilled Essex County dog bite attorneys a call to learn more.
Can I seek legal action against a negligent dog owner?
If you are attacked by a dog, you may face:
- Head trauma
- Permanent scarring
- Lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Wrongful death
Because of these horrible consequences, you may be entitled to financial compensation for burdens including lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and more. If your attorney can demonstrate that you were attacked either while on public property or while you were legally on private property, you will most likely be qualified for financial compensation. However, if you were trespassing, taunting the dog, or provoked the attack, you may not recover compensation.
What are New Jersey’s “vicious dog laws”?
The state of New Jersey has a “vicious dog law” that aims to stop dog attacks from happening. Basically, when a dog kills a domestic pet or attacks a person, the dog may be deemed “vicious or potentially dangerous” under this law. If the court says that a dog is vicious, the owner may have to show “beware of dog” signs on his or her property, keep the dog locked in an enclosure, and receive a license to continue having the dog as a pet.
What steps should I take after a dog attack?
If you have been attacked by a dog, you may want to take legal action. In order to do so, it is important to obtain proof of negligence. To do this, be sure to:
- Call 911: It is important to call the police directly after a dog attack happens. The police can dispatch an ambulance, ensure that no one else gets hurt, file an accident report, and more.
- Seek medical attention: It is important to go to the hospital instantly after an accident occurs. This is particularly true when it comes to a dog accident. This is because dogs can carry many diseases, including rabies. Furthermore, going to the doctor can supply you with important evidence of the origin and extent of your injuries.
- Document the scene: Take photos and videos of the scene of the accident. This may involve your location, the presence or absence of signs indicating a dog, and more.
- Obtain witness contact: If anyone saw your accident happen, they may be able to supply an important witness perspective.
- Retain the services of an attorney: An experienced attorney may be able to gather further evidence, including security camera footage, police reports, and more.
If you have any additional questions or concerns about dog attacks in New Jersey, our firm is on your side.
Contact our Experienced New Jersey Firm
If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. for a free consultation today.
