Dog Bite Injury Claims

Legal Support for Dog Bite Victims in New Jersey

A dog bite can be sudden, traumatic, and life-altering — especially for children and older adults. Beyond the physical injuries, victims often deal with emotional trauma, scarring, infection, and long-term complications.


At Perskie - Byrne Injury Lawyer, we represent dog bite victims across New Jersey, helping them pursue compensation from negligent dog owners. Located in Linwood, our firm understands New Jersey’s strict liability laws and how to navigate these cases for the best possible outcome.


If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, contact us today. We’ll explain your rights and fight to hold the dog’s owner accountable.

Dog Owner Responsibility Under New Jersey Law

New Jersey follows a strict liability statute when it comes to dog bites. This means that:


  • A dog owner is liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before

  • The victim does not need to prove the owner was negligent

  • Liability applies if the bite occurred in a public place or lawfully on private property

In other words, if you were legally present and a dog bit you, the owner is likely responsible — regardless of the dog’s history or breed.



This makes dog bite claims more straightforward than many other personal injury cases, but they still require strong evidence, timely filing, and legal expertise.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can range from minor nips to devastating assaults. Injuries often include:


  • Puncture wounds and deep lacerations

  • Nerve damage

  • Facial injuries and scarring

  • Infections (including rabies and MRSA)

  • Torn muscles or ligaments

  • Crush injuries or broken bones

  • Emotional trauma, especially in children

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Even a “small” bite can result in serious complications. We help clients recover not just for immediate medical care, but for long-term treatment, psychological care, and any permanent damage.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

Your actions immediately after a bite can make a major difference in both your health and your legal case:

1

Get medical treatment immediately — even if the wound looks minor

2

Report the bite to your local health department or animal control

3

Obtain the dog owner’s contact and vaccination information

4

Photograph your injuries and the scene

5

Avoid giving recorded statements to the owner’s insurance company

6

Contact an attorney to protect your rights and handle next steps

We’ll guide you through the reporting process, deal with insurance adjusters, and ensure you’re treated fairly.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

If you were bitten by a dog, you may be eligible for compensation related to:



  • Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization

  • Surgery, plastic or reconstructive procedures

  • Rehabilitation or physical therapy

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress

  • Permanent disfigurement or disability

  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity

  • Psychological treatment (especially for child victims)

We work with medical experts and therapists to understand the full impact of your injury and calculate damages accordingly.

Dog Bites and Children

Children are particularly vulnerable to dog attacks. Bites often affect the face, neck, and hands — and leave not just physical scars, but psychological trauma. If your child has been bitten, we will handle the case with care, ensuring their medical, emotional, and financial needs are fully represented.


We also work with pediatric specialists and psychologists when needed to support the healing process.

Why Choose Perskie - Byrne Injury Lawyer?

1.

Knowledge of New Jersey’s strict dog bite laws

2.

Personal, one-on-one attention to every case

3.

Local presence in Linwood, serving clients across South Jersey

4.

No legal fees unless we win compensation for you

5.

Experience negotiating with homeowners’ insurance companies

We know how insurance companies try to downplay bite injuries or shift blame. We push back — and we don’t stop until you get results.

FAQs About Dog Bite Claims

  • Can I sue if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

    Yes. New Jersey law holds owners responsible regardless of the dog’s past behavior. Prior knowledge of aggression is not required.

  • What if I was bitten while on private property?

    You may still have a case if you were lawfully present — such as visiting a friend, neighbor, or delivery stop. Trespassers are generally not protected under strict liability rules.

  • Is the dog always euthanized after a bite?

    Not necessarily. That decision is made by local animal control authorities. Our focus is on your legal and financial recovery, not criminal punishment.

  • Can I recover damages from the dog owner’s insurance?

    Yes. Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies. We handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company.

  • How long do I have to file a claim?

     In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for a dog bite injury is generally two years from the date of the attack. It’s best to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.


Talk to a New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyer Today

Dog bites are traumatic, painful, and often preventable. Let Perskie - Byrne Injury Lawyer help you take the next step toward healing and justice.


Call (609) 645-2111 or email shaunp.byrne@hotmail.com to schedule a free consultation.


Visit us at:

222 New Road, Suite 805, Linwood, NJ 08221

Open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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