Elizabeth, NJ Dog Bite Attorney

                                                           

Dog bites can have serious consequences, both physically and emotionally. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in New Jersey, it’s essential to understand your rights, the legal process, and potential compensation. If you’re seeking help with a dog bite, car accident, commercial vehicle accident, or a slip and fall, then it is important to contact a qualified attorney. Hiring an attorney like Brett M. Rosen for a dog bite case in New Jersey could be beneficial for several reasons based on the information available:

1. Expertise in Personal Injury Law: Brett M. Rosen has experience in personal injury law, which includes dog bite cases. His knowledge in this area can be crucial in navigating the legal complexities and advocating for your rights.
2. Successful Case Outcomes: He has a track record of settling personal injury cases, including securing close to $1 million in settlements within three months. This indicates his ability to achieve favorable outcomes for his clients.
3. Dedication to Clients: Rosen is known for his passion and dedication to his clients, treating them with respect and professionalism. This client-oriented approach can ensure that your case is handled with the attention it deserves.
4. Assertive Representation: His assertive approach in the courtroom has led to not-guilty verdicts in challenging cases. Such assertiveness could be advantageous in pursuing a dog bite lawsuit.

Contact our office today to discuss you or your loved one’s dog bite case that took place here in New Jersey.

Strict Liability Law & Dog Bite Cases in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the concept of strict liability applies to dog bite cases. This law is codified under New Jersey Statute 4:19-16 This means that a dog owner is held legally responsible for any injuries their dog causes by biting, regardless of the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s aggressiveness or previous behavior. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Strict Liability Explained:

• Owner’s Responsibility: The dog owner is liable for the dog bite injuries even if they had no prior indication that their dog was dangerous or had a tendency to bite.
• Location of the Victim: The law applies when the victim was on public property or legally on private property during the incident.
• No ‘One Bite’ Rule: Unlike some states, New Jersey does not follow a ‘one bite’ rule, where the owner might not be held liable for the first bite if they were unaware of the dog’s propensity to bite³.
• Legal Damages: Victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, both current and future, as a result of the dog bite.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite:

1. Identify the dog and its owner.
2. Confirm if the dog is up-to-date with rabies vaccinations.
3. Seek immediate medical attention to prevent infections.
4. Report the incident to local animal control and possibly the police.
5. Follow all medical advice and treatment plans.
6. Consult with a legal professional experienced in dog bite liability to protect your rights and help you navigate the claim process.

It’s important to note that dog bite claims can be complex, and having an experienced attorney can be crucial in ensuring that the victim’s rights are fully protected and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries. If you’re involved in such a case, it’s advisable to seek legal counsel to understand all your options. Contact our office today to discuss your dog bite case in New Jersey.

Is the Standard of Proof in a New Jersey Dog Bite Case Preponderance of the Evidence?

Yes, in New Jersey dog bite cases, the standard of proof is indeed the “preponderance of the evidence.” This means that the victim must demonstrate that it is more likely than not that the dog bite occurred as claimed. To meet this standard, the victim must prove the following:

1. Ownership of the Dog: The defendant is the owner of the dog.
2. Occurrence of the Bite: The dog bite incident took place.
3. Location of the Victim: The victim was either in a public place or lawfully on private property when the bite occurred.

This standard is less stringent than “beyond a reasonable doubt,” which is used in criminal cases, and is typical for civil cases like dog bite incidents. It requires the victim to show that their account of the event is more credible and convincing than not.

Does New Jersey Follow Comparative Negligence for Dog Bite Cases?

Yes, New Jersey does apply the principle of comparative negligence in dog bite cases. Under this rule, if a victim is found to be partially at fault for their own injuries, their compensation may be reduced. Specifically, if the victim’s share of the blame is 50 percent or less, they can still receive compensation, but it will be decreased in proportion to their degree of fault. However, if the victim is more at fault than the dog owner, they won’t receive any compensation for the injury. This system aims to allocate damages based on the relative fault of all parties involved. Call our office today for a consultation regarding you or your loved one’s New Jersey dog bite case.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Factors affecting the value of your case include:

1. Severity: The severity of the dog bite injuries.
2. Medical Costs: Compensation covers medical expenses, both current and ongoing.
3. Emotional Impact: Dog bites can cause emotional wounds that take time to heal.

Contact our office today to discuss your dog bite case that took place in New Jersey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Question: What is the amount of dog bites that occur in New Jersey per year?
  • Answer: In New Jersey, there were 611 dog bite claims reported in a recent year. While this number specifically refers to insurance claims, it can give us an idea of the frequency of dog bites that are serious enough to warrant an insurance claim. It’s important to note that not all dog bites may lead to insurance claims, so the actual number of dog bites could be higher.

 

• Question: Do I have to pay a retainer to hire a dog bite lawyer in New Jersey?
  • Answer: In New Jersey, many dog bite lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they do not require an upfront retainer fee. Instead, they only get paid if they win your case, typically taking a percentage of the settlement or award. It’s always best to discuss fee arrangements directly with the lawyer to understand their specific terms and any other costs that might be involved in your case. If you’re considering hiring a lawyer for a dog bite case, you can usually get a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and any potential fees. Contact our office today to discuss your dog bite case.

 

• Question: What are Common Injuries in New Jersey Dog Bite Cases?
  • Answer: In New Jersey dog bite cases, common injuries reported include:
    • Cuts and lacerations
    • Nerve damage
    • Scarring or disfigurement
    • Dismemberment
    • Infections, which may include rabies
  • Other serious injuries can also occur, such as:
    • Puncture wounds
    • Broken bones
    • Eye injuries
    • Head injuries
    • Neck injuries
    • Face injuries
  • These injuries can lead to significant medical treatment, potential surgeries, and in some cases, long-term or permanent disability. Victims may seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages under New Jersey’s strict liability dog bite law. If you or someone you know has been affected by a dog bite, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately and consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and the potential for compensation. Call us today for a consultation.

• Question: Do I Have to Prove a Permanent Injury in New Jersey Dog Bite Cases?
  • Answer: In New Jersey dog bite cases, you do not need to prove a permanent injury to seek compensation. The state’s dog bite statute operates on a principle of strict liability. This statute relieves victims from the burden of demonstrating the dog’s previous aggressive behavior or the owner’s negligence. It’s designed to protect victims by simplifying the legal process required to obtain compensation for injuries sustained from a dog bite. If you’re considering a claim, it may be beneficial to consult with a legal professional who specializes in dog bite cases to guide you through the process. Contact our office to discuss you or your loved one’s dog bite case that occurred in New Jersey.

• Question: Who Typically Pays for a New Jersey Dog Bite Case?
  • Answer: In New Jersey, dog bite cases are typically settled through insurance companies. The dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance, or other forms of liability insurance often cover the damages. These policies usually include coverage for incidents such as dog bites. Here are some types of insurance that may be applicable in a dog bite claim:
    • Homeowner’s insurance
    • Condo insurance
    • Co-op insurance
    • Renter’s insurance
    • Mobile homeowner’s insurance
    • Landlord insurance
    • Canine liability coverage or dog owner liability insurance
    • Automobile insurance (if the incident happened in or around a vehicle)
    • Business liability insurance (if the incident occurred at a place of business)
    • General liability insurance
    • Umbrella Insurance
    • Excess Policy
  • It’s important to note that while the insurance company may be responsible for paying, the claim process can be complex. An experienced dog bite attorney can help navigate the process and negotiate with the insurance companies to seek the best possible settlement for your case. Call our office today for a consultation regarding your dog bite case in New Jersey.

• Question: What Breed of Dog is Most Responsible for Dog Bites in New Jersey?
  • Answer: In New Jersey, the breeds most commonly associated with severe dog bites are Mixed Breeds, and German Shepherds. These breeds have been identified in studies as having higher rates of aggressive incidents, which can result in more damaging bites. It’s important to note that any dog can bite, and responsible ownership and proper training are crucial in preventing such incidents. Contact our office regarding you or your loved one’s dog bite that took place here in New Jersey.

• Question: What is the Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases in New Jersey?
  • Answer: In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for dog bite cases is two years from the date of the injury-causing dog bite. This means that you have two years to file a lawsuit against the dog owner, typically through their homeowner’s insurance provider. It’s important to act promptly, as the legal process can take time and this two-year window is strict. If you’re considering a claim, it’s advisable to consult with a legal professional early to ensure your rights are protected. Call our office for a consultation regarding your dog bite case that occurred in New Jersey.

 

Top-Shelf New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyer

A dog bite can leave scarring both physically and mentally. This is why it is important to discuss your case with a qualified attorney. Retaining an attorney like Brett M. Rosen for a New Jersey dog bite case can be beneficial for several reasons. Mr. Rosen is recognized for his dedication to law and justice, as well as his passion for advocating for human rights. His approach to legal cases, particularly those involving complex criminal defense, has earned him a reputation for being a tenacious and effective lawyer.

Here are some reasons why you might consider hiring him:

• Experience: Mr. Rosen has a track record of handling challenging cases and securing favorable outcomes for his clients.
• Dedication: He is known for his dedicated ardor in law and his belief in the sanctity of human rights, which can be crucial in cases that involve personal injury and seeking justice.
• Strategic Approach: His methodical, meticulous, and assertive approach to cross-examination and case strategy could be advantageous in dog bite cases where the details of the incident are critical.
• Client Advocacy: Mr. Rosen’s commitment to standing up for the rights of his clients, regardless of the circumstances, indicates a strong client-advocate relationship.

It’s important to choose an attorney who you feel comfortable with and who has the expertise to handle your specific case. Consulting with Mr. Rosen can provide you with legal advice tailored to your situation and help you understand the best course of action for your dog bite case. Contact our office today to discuss your New Jersey dog bite case.