Dog bites cause serious, often life-altering injuries that demand immediate medical attention and experienced legal representation. Every year, approximately 4.5 million people suffer dog bites in the United States, with roughly 800,000 requiring medical treatment. In New Jersey, victims of dog attacks face not only physical trauma but also significant financial burdens and emotional distress.
When you suffer a dog bite injury in New Jersey, you have legal rights. The state’s strict liability law places responsibility on dog owners to compensate victims for their injuries, regardless of whether the dog had previously bitten anyone. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, our experienced attorneys work to help you receive full compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Choose Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers for Your Dog Bite Case
Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers brings decades of experience, proven results, and unwavering commitment to injured victims throughout New Jersey. Our firm has recovered over $535 million in settlements and verdicts for clients across all practice areas, including serious personal injury cases requiring aggressive representation and trial advocacy.
Our Credentials and Experience
Our attorneys have handled hundreds of personal injury cases, including catastrophic injuries requiring complex litigation and expert testimony.
- 50+ Years Serving New Jersey: Since 1967, we have represented injury victims with dedication and results
- Certified Civil Trial Attorneys: Our lead attorneys hold certifications from the New Jersey Supreme Court recognizing expertise in civil trial advocacy
- Super Lawyers Recognition: Our attorneys have been named Super Lawyers and Super Lawyers Rising Stars, recognizing them among the top lawyers in New Jersey
- Best Lawyers in America: Multiple attorneys recognized in Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America
- Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum: Lifetime membership recognizing attorneys who have achieved multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
- 10 Office Locations: Convenient access to our firm throughout New Jersey, from Bergen County to the Shore
- 24/7 Availability: We understand emergencies don’t follow business hours. Our attorneys are available when you need us
- No-Fee Guarantee: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We work on a contingency fee basis, aligning our interests with yours
We know how to value your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and present compelling evidence to juries when necessary. Learn more about our trial attorneys and their experience. Our Roseland office serves as our headquarters, and we maintain additional locations throughout the state to serve you better.
Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and results depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Why You Need Legal Representation
Many dog bite victims attempt to handle insurance claims alone, only to discover that insurance companies minimize their injuries and offer inadequate settlements. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, not your interests. An experienced dog bite attorney levels the playing field, negotiates with insurers on your behalf, and ensures your case receives the attention it deserves. Our personal injury lawyers understand the tactics insurance companies use and know how to counter them effectively.
Injuries You Might Get After a Dog Bite
Dog bite injuries extend far beyond surface wounds. Victims commonly experience lacerations requiring stitches or surgical repair, nerve damage affecting long-term function, permanent disfigurement and scarring, facial wounds requiring reconstructive surgery, and serious infections, including Capnocytophaga, MRSA, and rabies exposure. Beyond the physical injuries, many victims suffer lasting psychological trauma, anxiety, and fear of animals.
New Jersey’s Strict Liability Law for Dog Bites (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16)
New Jersey operates under a strict liability statute for dog bites, which means dog owners are legally responsible for injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s knowledge of any dangerous tendencies. This is fundamentally different from negligence-based states, where victims must prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
Under New Jersey law, dog bite victims have strong protections that make recovery more straightforward than in many other states. The statute creates a clear legal framework that benefits injured parties. This strict liability protection is one of the strongest in the nation, giving victims a significant advantage in pursuing compensation.
What Strict Liability Means for Your Case
Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites a person while the person is in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner. This strict liability applies even if:
- The dog had never bitten anyone before
- The owner took precautions to prevent the bite
- The owner was unaware that the dog had aggressive tendencies
- The dog was typically friendly or well-trained
The victim does not need to prove negligence or that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care. The simple fact that the dog bit you while you were lawfully present is sufficient to establish liability.
Important limitations: Strict liability does not apply if you were trespassing on the property where the bite occurred, or if you assumed the risk of injury (such as a veterinarian or dog handler in a professional capacity). Additionally, New Jersey recognizes comparative negligence, meaning if you contributed to the incident through your own actions, your recovery may be reduced proportionally.
Types of Compensation Available in Dog Bite Claims
New Jersey law allows dog bite victims to recover comprehensive damages covering both economic and non-economic losses:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency room treatment, surgical repair, plastic surgery for scarring, ongoing wound care, infection treatment, rabies prophylaxis, psychological counseling, and future medical needs
- Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery and medical appointments
- Lost Earning Capacity: Compensation if injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life
- Emotional Distress: Compensation for anxiety, trauma, fear, and psychological impact
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Special damages for permanent visible injuries
- Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage: Most homeowner’s insurance policies include liability coverage for dog bite injuries, providing a source of recovery
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of medical treatment required, your age and earning capacity, and the impact on your daily life and future prospects. Our attorneys have successfully recovered millions in settlements for injured clients across New Jersey. Understanding how personal injury settlements are paid out can help you prepare for your recovery process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?
We represent dog bite victims on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees or costs. We only receive payment if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery, typically 33% for settlements and up to 40% for cases that proceed to trial. This arrangement ensures we are motivated to maximize your recovery. For more details on the difference between contingency fees and retainers, consult with our team.
What should I do immediately after a dog bite?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if the bite seems minor. Document the incident by taking photographs of your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible. Obtain the dog owner’s contact information and insurance details. Report the bite to local animal control or police. Gather contact information from any witnesses. Preserve all medical records and receipts. Contact an experienced dog bite attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights. Learn more about what documents you need for your personal injury case.
Can I sue for a dog bite in New Jersey?
Yes. Under New Jersey’s strict liability statute (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16), you can pursue a claim against the dog owner for damages. You may also have a claim against the property owner if they are different from the dog owner. Your claim can be pursued through the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or through a personal injury lawsuit. For more information about premises liability claims, consult with our experienced team.
Will the dog be euthanized if I file a claim?
Filing a civil claim for damages does not automatically result in the dog being euthanized. Euthanasia decisions are made through separate animal control proceedings based on the dog’s behavior and history. Your personal injury claim is independent of animal control actions. You can pursue compensation without necessarily triggering euthanasia proceedings.
What is the statute of limitations for a dog bite claim in New Jersey?
You have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. This deadline is critical—if you miss it, you lose your right to pursue compensation. We recommend contacting an attorney immediately after a dog bite to ensure your claim is properly documented and filed within the required timeframe. Learn more about whether your accident was last year and if you still have a claim.
How long does a dog bite case take to resolve?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and whether the insurance company cooperates. Many cases settle within 6-12 months. More complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability may take longer. We work efficiently to resolve your case while ensuring you receive fair compensation. Understanding how long a personal injury lawsuit takes can help you prepare for the process.
Contact Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers for Your Free Dog Bite Consultation
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in New Jersey, you deserve experienced legal representation fighting for your rights. Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers offers a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and explain your legal options.
Our attorneys are ready to answer your questions, evaluate your claim, and guide you through the process of recovering compensation. We serve clients throughout New Jersey with offices in Bergen County, Essex County, Union County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Passaic County, Mercer County, and beyond. We also serve Morris County, Atlantic County, and other areas throughout the state.
Call Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers today at (973) 364-8300 for your free consultation. Available 24/7. No obligation. No fees unless our firm recovers compensation for you.
Your recovery matters. Let our team of experienced attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve.
We are the trial attorneys with the experience and knowledge to get you the results you deserve. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, we take time to get to know you, as well as your case. We are committed to excellence. It is important for our team to understand your fears, concerns and expectations. We are always available to answer any questions, and are willing to come to you if you are unable to come to us.
Contact Your New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys
What to do after a dog attack in New Jersey
A dog attack can be a harrowing experience, so it’s easy to get flustered or suffer a kind of mental paralysis. What you can do now depends on how badly hurt you are, but you must remember that adrenaline often masks pain, so it might be hours before you realize how badly injured you are. It’s vitally important to get immediate medical care, which can include antibiotics and possibly a tetanus booster for even a minor bite.
Other important considerations include:
- Identifying the dog — Cellphone pictures of the animal can be helpful
- Identifying the owner — This may not be easy if the dog is roaming free. If a dog leaps a fence to attack you, note the address. If the owner is present at the attack, get identifying information.
- Get contact information from witnesses — If anyone sees the attack and stops to assist, get contact information from them to strengthen your legal case later.
- Document your injury — In addition to creating a medical record by getting emergency care, you should take pictures of your injuries.
Most people will not have the presence of mind to preserve evidence for a potential lawsuit while reeling from a vicious attack. That’s why contacting an experienced dog bite attorney is important as soon as possible, so your rights can be protected.
Always take a dog bite seriously
Don’t blow off a dog bite; it can be very serious. The injuries can be far more intense than you originally thought. There is the risk of infection, it can take time to heal, and the emotional trauma can linger. In some instances, dog bites can result in death or severe disfiguration. Contact us about the possibility of a case as soon as you can. The owner of the dog is responsible for their behavior. You aren’t considered at fault as long as you didn’t provoke the dog.
Contacting us right away can help to get your case moving forward. The full extent of the injuries may not be known immediately. With our help, you can get the medical care and the compensation you deserve. You may be unable to work or return to other activities for some time due to the dog attack.
Parents must inform children of the danger
As a parent, you must always be aware of what is happening around you. Talk to your children about the risk of dog bites. While you don’t want to scare them, you need them to be well aware of the risks. They need to know not to approach any dog they don’t know. Instead, they should wait for it to come up to them. They shouldn’t make noise or run, which can make the dog nervous.
An adult should be notified immediately if a stray dog is around the yard or if a dog is acting strangely. Children need to avoid taking toys or food from dogs or bothering them while they are sleeping. Females can protect their puppies, so children should always keep their distance.
Concerned about your dog? Reduce the risk of your dog biting
You can take steps to reduce the risk of your dog biting anyone. Learn about the temperament of various breeds. Don’t own any breed that is known for being aggressive. Keep your dog on a leash when you are walking them. If you let your dog out in the yard, ensure they can’t get out. Pay attention to how your dog is acting around others. If their behavior is unusual, take proactive steps to ensure nothing happens.
Settling an insurance claim for a dog attack
Very often, liability for a dog bite is covered by homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. An insurance company may contact you offering to work out a settlement. Initially, they may seem reasonable and conscientious, but you’ll soon find they only want to reduce the amount they have to pay. To get the full value for your claim, you need professional representation from a dedicated attorney who has your best interests at heart. Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers puts clients first. We’ve built our reputation on staunch advocacy in various injury cases where we’ve maximized the recovery for our clients.
Contact our determined NJ attorneys for your dog bite injury claim
Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers provides aggressive representation for victims of dog attacks throughout New Jersey. Let us help you obtain the full personal injury compensation you deserve. We’re dedicated to fighting for you, and we work on a contingency fee basis, so we don’t get paid unless you do. Call us today at (973) 364-8300 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
