Most dog owners in South Jersey are responsible people. But even a friendly family dog can bite. When it happens, the injuries can be deep, painful, and permanent, especially for children.
If you were bitten in Marlton, Sicklerville, Deptford, or anywhere nearby, you probably have questions. Is the owner responsible? Who pays? Should you really make a claim against a neighbor? A dog bite lawyer in South Jersey can answer those questions and handle the insurance side so you can focus on healing.
New Jersey Uses Strict Liability for Dog Bites
New Jersey is one of the more protective states for bite victims. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, a dog owner is liable for damages when their dog bites someone who is:
- In a public place, or
- Lawfully on private property, including the owner’s property
The owner is responsible even if the dog never bit anyone before. The owner does not need to know the dog was dangerous. This is called strict liability.
That is different from states with a “one bite” rule, where a victim often has to prove the owner knew the dog was aggressive.
What If the Dog Knocked You Down But Did Not Bite?
The strict liability statute applies to bites. If a dog jumped on you, knocked you over, or chased you into traffic, the claim usually proceeds under negligence or common law rules. You may need to show the owner knew of the dog’s tendencies or failed to use reasonable care, such as ignoring a leash ordinance.
A dog bite lawyer in South Jersey will look at the facts to decide which legal path fits.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Bite injuries are often worse than they first appear. We regularly see:
- Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
- Nerve and tendon damage, especially to hands
- Infections requiring antibiotics or hospitalization
- Facial injuries and permanent scarring
- Broken bones from being knocked down
- Emotional trauma, including fear of dogs and anxiety
Children are bitten more often than adults, and their injuries are more likely to involve the face and neck. Scars on a child may require future revision surgery as they grow.
Who Pays for a Dog Bite Claim?
This is the question that keeps many people from calling. They worry about suing a friend, neighbor, or relative.
In most cases, the owner does not pay out of pocket. Homeowners and renters insurance policies commonly cover dog bite liability. The claim is made against the policy, much like a car accident claim is made against auto insurance.
Some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with a bite history. Some owners have no coverage. A lawyer can identify the right insurer and check for exclusions early.
If the bite happened at a business, a rental property, or a public park, other parties may also share responsibility. Our article on when property owners are liable for injuries explains how premises liability works in New Jersey.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
The first 48 hours matter for your health and your claim. From Cherry Hill to Waterford, we recommend these steps:
- Get medical care right away. Dog bites carry a real infection risk. Ask about rabies and tetanus.
- Report the bite. Contact local animal control or the health department. Reports support rabies monitoring and create an official record.
- Get the owner’s information. Name, address, phone number, and the dog’s vaccination status.
- Photograph everything. Wounds, torn clothing, the location, and any fence or gate issues.
- Collect witness names. Neighbors and passersby can confirm what happened.
- Keep records. Save bills, prescriptions, and notes about missed work or school.
- Talk to a lawyer before speaking to an insurer. Adjusters may ask for a recorded statement early.
Defenses Owners and Insurers Raise
Even under strict liability, insurers look for ways to reduce payment. Common arguments include:
- Trespassing. The statute protects people lawfully on the property.
- Provocation. Insurers may claim the victim teased or hurt the dog.
- Comparative fault. New Jersey reduces recovery by the victim’s share of fault and bars recovery if the victim is more than 50 percent at fault.
- Pre-existing conditions. Especially with hand and nerve injuries.
A dog bite lawyer in South Jersey gathers the evidence needed to answer these defenses directly.
What Compensation Is Available?
Depending on the injury, a bite victim may recover:
- Medical expenses, including future plastic surgery
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Counseling costs for emotional trauma
Serious scarring often increases the value of a claim, particularly on the face.
Bitten While Working?
Mail carriers, delivery drivers, utility workers, and home health aides are bitten on the job every year. If that happened to you, you may have two claims. New Jersey workers’ compensation can cover medical care and lost time from your employer. A separate claim against the dog owner may cover pain and suffering, which workers’ comp does not pay. Our firm handles both sides, so the claims can be coordinated from the start.
The Deadline to File
The general statute of limitations for personal injury in New Jersey is two years. For children, the deadline is usually paused until they turn 18. Settlements for minors generally need court approval. Evidence and witness memories fade quickly, so early action still helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a dog bite lawyer in South Jersey if the owner is apologetic?
An apology is kind, but it does not handle the insurance claim. A lawyer makes sure your medical costs, scarring, and future care are fully valued, while keeping the process respectful.
Is a dog owner always responsible for a bite in New Jersey?
In most cases involving a bite in a public place or while lawfully on private property, yes. Trespassing, provocation, and comparative fault can affect the outcome.
Will filing a claim hurt my relationship with a neighbor?
Many clients worry about this. Usually the claim goes through the owner’s homeowners or renters insurance, not their personal savings. That often eases the tension.
What if my child was bitten?
Get medical care and report the bite. A parent can bring the claim on the child’s behalf. Facial scarring in children often requires careful long-term medical evaluation.
What if the dog was a stray?
Stray bites are harder because there may be no owner or insurance. Other sources, such as a property owner who knew about the animal, may exist. A consultation can help sort it out.
Speak With a Dog Bite Lawyer in South Jersey
The Law Offices of Doner & Castro, P.C. represent injured people across the region. Henry L. Doner and Kevin D. Castro bring decades of experience. Review our practice areas and personal injury services, or browse our FAQs.
We serve Marlton, Sicklerville, Deptford, Cherry Hill, Waterford, and communities throughout South Jersey.
Call (856) 719-8711 or contact us for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we recover.