Hackensack Dog Bite Lawyer

Victims of dog bites and attacks have legal rights and may pursue compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The incidents often leave them with traumatic injuries and lacerations from the bites, infections, nerve damage, and psychological trauma.

If you or someone you love suffered harm because of a negligent pet owner, you should contact a personal injury attorney, as you have every right to expect the owner to cover the damages. Contact a seasoned Hackensack dog bite lawyer at our firm to review your case and learn more about your options.

How Do You Know How Severe Dog Bite Injuries Are?

Determining the severity of dog bite injuries involves closely evaluating the immediate physical damage and any potential long-term complications. For severe injuries, you should see a medical professional for assessment. They will determine the wound characteristics, risk of infection, and overall impact on you.

The severity of dog bites is not only about their initial appearance but also the symptoms you may develop, such as neurological issues and infections. Without an accurate evaluation, you’re at risk of serious health issues, including sepsis, permanent scarring, and rabies. After seeking medical care from a professional healthcare provider, our Hackensack dog bite attorney can answer your questions and help you through the recovery claims process.

Strict Liability for Damages Caused by Dog Bites

In this state, a dog owner is liable for damages resulting from their pet biting or attacking another person in any public place. That is also the case for anyone who lawfully entered a property. Under New Jersey Statutes Annotated § 4:19-16, dog owners are solely liable for the injuries and damages, regardless of whether the animal has a history of aggression or viciousness.

The law follows the strict liability rule, meaning pet owners are responsible for covering the cost of damages without the victim building a case to prove fault. That applies to bites, attacks, knocking someone down, etc.

Insurance Company Negotiation

Settlements for injuries and losses from dog bites often occur with the pet owner’s rental or homeowners’ insurance company. The process involves providing statements and negotiating compensation amounts. The settlement process includes the following steps:

• The insurer typically makes a quick initial offer, and they often keep the settlement amount low, excluding the future medical costs and non-economic damages
• The negotiations and counteroffers begin, and an attorney often presents evidence of the damages to seek a higher amount than offered
• Many cases reach the settlement agreement phase once all parties agree on a fair compensation amount, which is often paid through a lump sum or structured settlement payments

Our skilled dog bite lawyer in Hackensack can handle the negotiations and communication to fight for a fair settlement amount. If they cannot reach an acceptable payout, they can assist you in collecting strong evidence and filing a lawsuit in civil court.

The Possible Recoverable Damages

The possible recoverable damages for lawsuits resulting from dog bites and attacks include the total cost of medical care and ongoing treatment, lost salary and earning potential, and transportation costs for doctor’s office visits. Non-economic damages are also common and compensate you for any psychological harm, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, permanent disfigurement or scarring, and pain and suffering.

Call a Skilled Dog Bite Attorney in Hackensack Today

If you suffered harm as a result of a dog bite or attack, state civil laws protect you by providing the process to obtain a settlement from the pet’s owner. An attack can leave you with severe physical harm, requiring long-term medical care, permanent scarring or disabilities, psychological damage, and pain and suffering.

Call us today and schedule a consultation to speak to our experienced Hackensack dog bite lawyer. We will fight for your rights and for a just outcome.