Dog Bite Laws in NJ: What If the Dog Never Bit Anyone Before?

Being attacked and bitten by someone else’s dog is a terrifying experience that can lead to lasting injuries, severe losses, and immense emotional suffering. If this is the position you find yourself in and the animal’s owner wants you to know that their pet has never attacked anyone before, it can potentially leave you doubting your right to compensation, but this is not how dog bite laws work in New Jersey. If someone else’s dog bites and injures you, you have necessary rights, and an experienced New Jersey dog bite attorney is standing by to help.

The One-Bite Rule that Some States Employ

Some states have adopted a one-bite rule for dog bite claims. This means that, if the dog in question has never exhibited any clear signs of aggression in the past, the owner may avoid liability for a first dog-bite claim. The fact that the attack is the animal’s first known incident–or that the pet owner says it is– does not, however, alter the fact that the resulting physical, financial, and emotional losses can be immense.

New Jersey’s Strict Liability

New Jersey takes a more straightforward approach to dog bites, which is known as strict liability. Under strict liability, the dog owner is held legally liable for any bite-related damages, regardless of whether they engaged in any form of negligence or knew that their dog had an aggressive streak.

The only potential exceptions in the state of New Jersey include the following:

• The victim provoked the animal to attack
• If the victim was on the dog owner’s private property illegally
• The dog that attacked was working in an official capacity, such as for the military or government

It should be noted that strict liability applies only if a dog bite caused the injuries you suffered. If you were knocked down, mauled, or otherwise attacked – but were not bitten – you may be required to prove negligence on the dog owner’s part.

Your Dog Bite Claim 

While the owner of the dog that bit you may claim innocence, it is unlikely to affect the strength of your claim. Dog bites can lead to dangerous infections, be permanently disfiguring when on or near the face, and cause severe physical damage, especially to the hands, forearms, and calves, which are common areas of attack for adults. Obtaining the compensation you deserve can play a key role in your recovery, and a trusted dog-bite lawyer has the drive, resources, and legal insight to help.

Discuss Your Claim with an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney Today

If a dog bite leaves you injured, Philip A. DiBartolo, Jr., at DiBartolo Law in New Jersey is well-positioned to pursue a favorable claim resolution that supports your full recovery, and he has an imposing track record of success backing him up. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 215-874-8553 today.