A dog bite lawyer NJ can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve if you’ve been injured in a dog attack. New Jersey has a strict liability policy when it comes to dog bites, meaning that a dog owner can be held responsible for damages if their pet bites someone in a public place or if the victim was lawfully on private property—regardless of whether the dog had shown previous aggression.
According to New Jersey Statute 4:19-16, the law clearly states that a dog owner is liable for any injuries their pet causes, even if they had no prior knowledge of the dog’s viciousness. A skilled New Jersey dog bite attorney can help victims understand their rights and seek compensation for their injuries.
Many dog bite victims hesitate to take legal action, especially when they know the owner personally. However, most homeowner or liability insurance policies cover damages related to dog attacks. A knowledgeable dog bite lawyer in NJ can guide you through the claims process and ensure you receive compensation for:
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury, it’s essential to consult an experienced NJ dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. Reporting the incident to local animal control or law enforcement is also critical in building a strong case.
At Portnoi & Reed, our skilled dog attack attorney NJ will fight for your rights and hold negligent pet owners accountable. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer NJ today for a free consultation. Call (908) 228-8800 now to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, take these steps immediately:
Seek medical attention – Dog bites can cause infection, nerve damage, and scarring.
Document the injury – Take photos of wounds, torn clothing, and the scene.
Get the dog owner’s information – Name, contact details, and insurance.
Report the attack – File a report with animal control or local authorities.
Contact an experienced NJ dog bite attorney – A free consultation can help you understand your legal options.
Under New Jersey’s strict liability law (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16), dog owners are responsible for any injuries their dog causes, even if the dog has never bitten before. This means:
✔ You don’t need to prove negligence to file a claim.
✔ The owner is liable if the attack happened in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property.
✔ Liability may be reduced if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing with criminal intent.
Yes. Victims of dog bites often suffer from long-term physical and emotional damage, including scars, nerve damage, and PTSD. If you need plastic or reconstructive surgery, a dog bite lawyer for scarring in NJ can help you seek compensation for:
Medical bills (including future procedures)
Pain and suffering
Lost wages if the injury affects your ability to work
Emotional distress, especially for children or facial injuries
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite injuries. If the dog owner has insurance, their provider may pay for:
✔ Medical expenses (including emergency care and surgery)
✔ Lost wages if you miss work
✔ Emotional trauma and PTSD treatment
✔ Pain and suffering
If the insurance company denies your claim, a New Jersey dog bite lawyer for insurance claims can negotiate or take legal action on your behalf.
Compensation depends on:
✔ Severity of your injuries (e.g., minor wound vs. permanent disability)
✔ Medical costs (hospitalization, plastic surgery, rehabilitation)
✔ Lost income if you are unable to work
✔ Long-term effects (pain, suffering, emotional trauma)
A top-rated dog bite attorney in New Jersey can evaluate your case and fight for maximum compensation.
Children are more vulnerable to severe injuries from dog bites, including facial wounds and psychological trauma. A NJ dog bite attorney for children can help:
✔ Secure medical care and therapy for your child
✔ Ensure fair compensation for long-term effects
✔ Hold the dog owner accountable under NJ law
Yes. If you were bitten while delivering a package, working in a home, or on public property, you may have a case. A dog bite lawyer for postal workers, delivery drivers, and utility workers in New Jersey can help determine if:
✔ The dog owner is liable under NJ’s strict liability laws
✔ Workers’ compensation applies to your injury
✔ The case involves a landlord, apartment complex, or commercial property
While any breed can bite, attacks from Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds can cause severe injuries. A dog bite lawyer for dangerous dog cases in NJ can:
✔ Prove the dog owner’s responsibility
✔ Gather medical records and expert testimony
✔ Fight for compensation for reconstructive surgery and PTSD treatment
The statute of limitations for dog bite cases in NJ is two years from the date of the attack. Waiting too long can make it harder to collect evidence and weaken your case. A NJ dog bite attorney for legal deadlines can ensure you meet all filing requirements.
Yes! Even though NJ has strict liability laws, insurance companies try to minimize payouts. A top dog bite lawyer in NJ can:
✔ Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement
✔ File a lawsuit if negotiations fail
✔ Handle evidence gathering, including witness statements and medical records
✔ Represent you in mediation, arbitration, or trial litigation
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1199 US-22, Suite 301
Mountainside, NJ 07092
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P: (908) 228-8800
F: (908) 228-8115
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32 Monmouth St, Suite 323
Red Bank, NJ 07701
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P: (732) 444-7914
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280 Madison Ave, Suite 1202
New York, NY 10016
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