Dogs may have a reputation for being man’s best friend, but they may also be dangerous. Dog bites account for a disproportionate share of New Jersey’s personal injury claims. The psychological and physiological effects of a dog bite can be devastating. But under what circumstances can a bite result in a legal suit, and how can owner fault be established? A New Jersey personal injury lawyer can assist you in understanding how to prove negligence.
New Jersey Dog Bite Laws: What You Need to Know
Dog bite cases in New Jersey are governed by a set of laws and principles designed to safeguard victims’ rights while holding pet owners accountable for their animals’ actions. It is essential to be familiar with New Jersey’s dog bite law if you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog there.
How to Present Evidence of Owner Negligence
If the occurrence involved more than just a bite or occurred outside New Jersey, you can bolster your claim by showing that the owner was negligent.
Here is how to make your argument stronger:
Collect Data Directly From the Scene
Take good images of the injuries, the dog, the scene, and anything else that might point to negligence.
Statements from Witnesses: Collect testimonies from anyone who may have seen what happened. Their accounts can illuminate the dog’s habits and the owner’s response.
Investigate Any Prior Incidents
While New Jersey law does not mandate proof of a dog’s history of aggression before filing a bite claim, such evidence might help prove the owner’s recklessness.
Talk to people in your neighborhood or nearby. They may recall past events in which the same dog displayed aggressive behavior.
Find Out If There Were Any Laws Broken
Leashing, muzzling, and restraint laws vary by breed and size of dog in many communities. Evidence of carelessness could be provided if it is determined that the owner violated these regulations at the time of the bite.
Get Some Help From The Doctors
Seek medical assistance, even if you do not think your injury is serious. Having a medical treatment record is essential for more reasons than just your health.
Later symptoms may appear for some injuries, notably infections. Having proof that these problems started after the dog bite is essential.
Record the Economic and Psychological Effects
Document everything that has cost you money because of the bite, from treatment to therapy to time off work.
A journal detailing your reactions after the event might also help elucidate the mental toll.
Consult with Qualified Professionals
It may be helpful to consult a canine behavior specialist in specific situations. They can bolster a claim of owner responsibility by providing information about the dog’s breed, behavior, and probable triggers.