Dog attacks and bites are, unfortunately, a problem across the United States. It’s particularly common for children to be seriously injured and traumatized by dog attacks. This is for several reasons: Children have a tendency to behave unpredictably around dogs, causing the dogs to sometimes feel threatened or scared. Additionally, violent dogs may see a child that isn’t interacting with them as a threat or target, causing them to launch a vicious attack.
Therefore, all dog owners have the responsibility to keep others safe from the potentially dangerous behavior of their pets. In New Jersey, the law is particularly severe: Strict liability is placed on dog owners, meaning that the dog owner is liable for the injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether or not the dog has a history of violent behavior. The following is an overview of how you can take action to hold the owner liable after you or a loved one was bitten by a dog.
Report the attack
After you have sought medical attention, you should report the incident to an animal control official. Provide as much information as you can about the incident, as well as information about the owner if you have it.
Gather evidence
You will need to have enough proof to show that the dog attack actually happened, and to confirm the identity of the dog and the owner.
Recover damages for the injuries
Not only will you hold the dog owner responsible for the attack, thereby helping to prevent something similar from happening again, but you will also have the opportunity to recover damages. In doing so, you should be able to gain back compensation for all medical treatment required, including therapy, and damages for the pain and suffering caused.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a dog attack in New Jersey, it is advisable to take swift action to gain the damages that you deserve.