Atlantic City Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog attacks can happen unexpectedly and result in serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant medical expenses. After it happens, understanding your legal rights becomes a priority. New Jersey has specific laws regarding dog owner liability that can affect your ability to receive compensation. 

The Atlantic City dog bite lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm skillfully represent individuals who have suffered injuries from dog attacks. We recognize that these incidents can have lasting impacts on your health, finances, and quality of life, which is why we commit to providing comprehensive legal support throughout your recovery journey. Our legal team has thorough knowledge of New Jersey dog bite laws and applies this understanding to build strong cases for our clients. As your case progresses, we are always available to answer your questions.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?

The moments following a dog bite are important for your health and any future legal action. 

First, seek medical attention right away, even if the wound appears minor. Dog bites can cause infections, nerve damage, or other complications that might not be immediately apparent. Medical documentation will also serve as valuable evidence for your case. Before leaving the scene, collect contact information from the dog owner and any witnesses.

After receiving medical care, report the incident to local animal control authorities. This creates an official record of the attack and helps identify if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior. Take photographs of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and any torn clothing. These steps will help our Atlantic City dog bite lawyers establish liability.

How Does the New Jersey Dog Bite Law Work?

New Jersey follows a “strict liability” rule for dog bites, which means dog owners are responsible for injuries their dogs cause, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous or took reasonable precautions to prevent the bite. This differs from laws in other states that might give owners a “free first bite” or require proof of owner negligence. Technically, that means you will not have to prove that the owner was negligent. Still, there can be exceptions. Examples might include intentionally provoking a dog or trespassing.

The strict liability law applies when the plaintiff was in a public place or lawfully on private property when bitten. This protection covers not only guests but also mail carriers, delivery personnel, and other individuals with legal permission to be on the property.  

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Dog Bite Injury?

The Atlantic City dog bite lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm work diligently to identify all possible avenues for compensation to help clients recover financially from this traumatic experience. Claimants may be eligible for various forms of compensation, depending on the circumstances and severity of their injuries. Medical expenses form the foundation of most claims, including emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation services, medication costs, and anticipated future medical needs related to the injury.

Additionally, you may receive compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevented you from working. If the dog bite resulted in permanent scarring, disfigurement, or disability, you might qualify for additional damages. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is generally two years from the date of the injury. This legal deadline means you must file your lawsuit within this timeframe or potentially lose your right to pursue compensation forever.

There are some exceptions to this rule, particularly for minors who are bitten by dogs. Children typically have until two years after their 18th birthday to file a claim. However, we do not recommend waiting to take legal action. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and proving your case becomes more difficult with time. Consulting with our lawyers promptly after an incident allows us to preserve evidence and build the strongest possible case on your behalf.

What if the Dog Owner Is Someone I Know?

Many dog bite incidents involve animals owned by friends, neighbors, or family members, which can create uncomfortable social situations. It is important to understand that most dog bite claims are paid through the owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy, not directly from the owner’s pocket. Still, people take things like this personally.

Our legal team handles these sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism. We often resolve claims through insurance negotiations without damaging personal relationships. Our team understands the social dynamics involved and will work to achieve fair compensation while minimizing interpersonal conflict whenever possible.

Can I Still Recover Damages if I Was Partially at Fault?

New Jersey follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the dog bite incident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, and you cannot recover any damages if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the incident.

Actions that might constitute partial fault include provoking the dog, ignoring warning signs, or trespassing on private property. Our legal team will evaluate the circumstances of your case and develop strategies to counter any arguments about your potential contribution to the incident, maximizing your potential recovery.

How Can I Prepare for My Initial Consultation With a Dog Bite Lawyer?

Preparing thoroughly for your first meeting with a dog bite lawyer will help you get the most value from your consultation: 

1. Gather all relevant documentation (medical records, incident reports, injury photographs, insurance correspondence, and witness contact information).
2. Make detailed notes about the attack circumstances, location, dog breed, and any known previous incidents.
3. Create a timeline of events and treatment received since the incident.
4. Prepare specific questions about the legal process, potential compensation, and case strategy.

This preparation helps us provide more accurate guidance during your consultation and a productive initial meeting about your dog bite case.

Atlantic City Dog Bite Lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm Work to Get You the Compensation That You Deserve for Your Dog Bite Injury

After a serious dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. The seasoned Atlantic City dog bite lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm can investigate the circumstances thoroughly, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and if necessary, represent you aggressively in court. For a free consultation, call us at 609-926-3300 or complete our online form. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and South Jersey.