A dog attack can happen in an instant, leaving you shaken, injured, and wondering what to do next. Whether the bite broke the skin or caused serious wounds, the aftermath can be just as overwhelming as the attack itself. Medical bills, missed work, and the fear of infection or scarring can quickly add to the stress.
In New Jersey, the law recognizes how serious dog bites can be. The state has some of the strongest dog bite laws in the country—and that matters when you’re trying to figure out your rights. Unlike states that give dog owners a free pass until their pet has a history of aggression, the dog bite law in New Jersey holds owners strictly liable (responsible) for the very first bite. That means you don’t have to prove negligence to seek compensation.
Knowing how strict liability works can make a big difference in your next steps if a dog bit you. Here’s what you need to know about holding negligent dog owners accountable and protecting your rights.
New Jersey’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
In New Jersey, dog bite cases are governed by N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, which states that a dog owner is strictly liable if their dog bites someone in a public place or while lawfully on private property.
It means:
- The victim does not have to prove that the owner was negligent.
- The owner cannot argue that they didn’t know the dog was dangerous.
- The owner is still responsible even if the dog never bit anyone before.
Strict liability applies only to bites, not to other dog-related injuries, such as being knocked over. For non-bite injuries, a victim must prove the owner was negligent.
When a Dog Owner May Not Be Liable
While New Jersey law favors victims in dog bite cases, there are situations where the owner may not be held responsible, including:
- Trespassing – If you were unlawfully on private property at the time of the bite, the owner may not be liable.
- Provocation – If you hit, tease, or threaten the dog, the owner may argue that you provoked the attack, which could affect your claim.
- Government Working Dogs – If a police or military dog bit someone while performing official duties, liability may be limited.
Even if the owner claims one of these defenses, they still bear the burden of proving it in court.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in New Jersey
Taking the proper steps after a dog bite can protect your health and your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what to do after an attack:
1. Seek Medical Attention
Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, and scarring. Some bites require stitches, rabies treatment, or even reconstructive surgery. Even if the wound seems minor, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner
Get the owner’s name, address, and phone number if possible. Ask for proof of rabies vaccination to determine whether additional medical treatment is needed.
3. Report the Bite
New Jersey law requires dog bites to be reported to local health authorities to assess rabies risks. You can report the bite to:
- Your local animal control office
- The county health department
- The local police department
If the owner refuses to cooperate, reporting the bite creates an official record that can be used in a legal claim.
4. Document Your Injuries and Medical Treatment
Take clear photos of the bite wound immediately after the attack and throughout the healing process. Keep records of:
- Doctor visits and medical bills
- Prescriptions and treatments
- Missed workdays and lost income
This evidence can support a legal claim if you pursue compensation.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims in New Jersey
Dog bites can lead to expensive medical bills, lost wages, and lasting emotional trauma. If you were bitten by a dog in New Jersey, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – Hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages – If the bite caused you to miss work or resulted in reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, and psychological trauma resulting from the attack. Some victims experience PTSD, fear of dogs, or lasting emotional distress, which can be factored into a claim.
- Scarring and Disfigurement – If the bite leaves permanent scars, particularly on visible areas like the face, hands, or arms.
The dog owner’s homeowners’ insurance policy covers many dog bite claims, but insurance companies often try to limit payouts or deny liability.
When a Dog Bite Case Goes to Court
Most dog bite claims in New Jersey are settled through insurance negotiations, but some cases may require a lawsuit if:
- The insurance company refuses to pay a fair settlement.
- The owner denies responsibility for the bite.
- The victim suffered severe injuries requiring long-term medical care.
New Jersey law allows victims to file a personal injury lawsuit under the statute of limitations up to two years from the date of the bite (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2).
If a lawsuit is necessary, the court will consider:
- The severity of the injury
- The medical costs and financial losses
- Any long-term physical or emotional effects of the bite
Dog Bite Laws and Dangerous Dog Designations in New Jersey
New Jersey also has separate laws for dogs with a history of aggression. Under the New Jersey Dangerous Dog Act (N.J.S.A. 4:19-22):
- If a dog previously attacked someone or killed another domestic animal, the owner may face stricter liability.
- Dogs classified as “potentially dangerous” must be registered and kept in secure enclosures.
- Owners of dangerous dogs must follow strict control measures, including using muzzles in public.
If a dog with a known history of aggression bites someone, the owner could be liable for additional damages.
New Jersey’s strict liability dog bite laws make it easier for victims to hold owners accountable, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. If you or a loved one has been bitten, seeking medical attention, reporting the bite, and documenting your injuries are key steps in protecting your health and legal rights.
Since dog bite cases often involve insurance companies trying to minimize payouts, it’s important to understand your rights under New Jersey law and take action before the two-year statute of limitations expires.
Hold Negligent Dog Owners Accountable – Get Legal Support Today
A dog bite can leave you with more than just physical scars—it can disrupt your daily life, bring unexpected medical expenses, and leave you wondering what to do next. New Jersey law holds dog owners accountable for bites, but insurance companies often try to minimize claims or shift the blame.
At The Law Offices of Peter N. Davis & Associates, New Jersey personal injury lawyer Peter N. Davis fights for dog bite victims across New Jersey to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With over 30 years of legal experience, our team knows how to push back against insurance companies and maximize your recovery.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Your online search for a “dog bite injury lawyer near me” or “dog bite injury attorney” brought you to this blog. Take the next step and call (973) 279-7246(973) 279-7246 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule your free consultation today. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your case and help you take the next steps toward justice.
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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.
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Lodi, NJ 07644
(973) 279-7246(973) 279-7246
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