Dog Bite Lawyer in New Jersey: Your Guide to Legal Rights and Compensation

When someone suffers a dog bite injury, it can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Richard J. Hollawell & Associates, a New Jersey personal injury law firm, is here to help dog bite victims understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, our experienced team will guide you through every step of the legal process to ensure you receive fair treatment and justice. In New Jersey, dog bite laws have unique aspects that can affect the outcome of your case compared to other states.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites can lead to severe injuries, including deep punctures, infections, broken bones, nerve damage, and, in some cases, permanent scarring or psychological trauma. These injuries often require significant medical care and time to heal. Without legal support, victims may struggle to cover medical bills and other associated costs. By working with an experienced dog bite lawyer, you gain an advocate who can navigate the legal process, determine liability, and help you obtain compensation for your injuries.

Richard J. Hollawell & Associates specializes in personal injury cases and has successfully represented many clients in dog bite cases. With our extensive knowledge of New Jersey dog bite laws and our dedication to our clients, we fight for the compensation you deserve.

How Dog Bite Law in New Jersey Differs from National Law

Dog bite laws can vary significantly from state to state. Nationally, there are two primary approaches to dog bite liability: strict liability and the one-bite rule.

1. Strict Liability States: In strict liability states, the owner is liable for dog bite injuries regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous.
2. One-Bite Rule States: In one-bite rule states, the owner is only liable if they knew or should have known that the dog had dangerous tendencies, often shown by a prior incident of aggression.

New Jersey follows a strict liability rule for dog bite injuries. This means that dog owners in New Jersey are automatically liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or whether the owner took precautions to prevent the bite. If you are bitten by a dog while lawfully on public or private property, the dog’s owner is responsible for your injuries.

This strict liability standard in New Jersey offers more protection to victims than in one-bite rule states, where proving liability can be more challenging. However, to successfully file a claim, victims must prove they were legally allowed on the property and did not provoke the dog. Richard J. Hollawell & Associates is well-versed in New Jersey’s strict liability dog bite laws and can build a compelling case to secure compensation for you.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

Dog bites can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

1. Puncture Wounds and Lacerations: Dogs have powerful jaws that can leave deep punctures and cuts, often requiring stitches and sometimes surgical intervention.
2. Infections: Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, leading to infections such as tetanus or rabies. Proper medical attention is essential.
3. Nerve and Muscle Damage: Deep bites may cause nerve or muscle damage, potentially leading to impaired movement or function in the affected area.
4. Broken Bones: Larger dogs may have the strength to fracture bones, particularly in children and elderly individuals.
5. Psychological Trauma: Victims of dog bites, especially children, may experience lasting psychological trauma, including anxiety or fear around dogs.

If you or a loved one has sustained any of these injuries, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Then, consider contacting a dog bite lawyer to explore your legal options.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

Taking prompt action after a dog bite can protect your health and strengthen your case. Here’s what you should do if you’ve been bitten by a dog:

1. Seek Medical Care: Even minor-looking bites can lead to infection. Immediate medical care not only safeguards your health but also creates records of your injuries.
2. Report the Incident: File a report with local animal control or law enforcement. This will document the incident and can be critical if the dog has a history of aggression.
3. Collect Evidence: Take photographs of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the incident if possible. Gather contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses.
4. Keep Records: Track medical bills, lost income, and other expenses related to your injury. This documentation is essential for calculating damages in your case.

Richard J. Hollawell & Associates can guide you through these steps and ensure that you have the necessary documentation to build a strong case.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in New Jersey

Victims of dog bites may be eligible for compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency treatment, surgeries, medications, and ongoing rehabilitation related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack.
• Property Damage: If personal property was damaged during the incident, such as clothing or electronic devices, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
• Permanent Scarring or Disability: In severe cases, compensation for long-term or permanent damage, including physical and psychological impacts.

Why Choose Richard J. Hollawell & Associates?

Dog bite cases require a thorough understanding of New Jersey’s personal injury and strict liability laws, as well as a compassionate approach to representing victims. Richard J. Hollawell & Associates is dedicated to providing personalized, results-oriented legal representation for dog bite victims in New Jersey.

Our team is committed to:

• Protecting Your Rights: We make sure you understand your rights and have the support needed to make informed decisions about your case.
• Aggressive Representation: We fight tirelessly to hold negligent dog owners accountable for the harm their pets cause.
• No Fees Unless We Win: Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you receive compensation.

Contact Richard J. Hollawell, Your New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a dog bite in New Jersey, Richard J. Hollawell & Associates is here to help. With our knowledge of New Jersey’s strict liability dog bite laws, we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.