Holding Pet Owners Accountable for Dog Bites and Other Injuries

Dog bites do not always come from the homeless or mangy stray or vicious guard dog. More often it is the previously friendly dog who suddenly bites or lunges without warning. And when they do, they can cause serious wounds, permanent scars, and lasting trauma.

If you or your child was attacked by a dog, the owner is legally responsible under New Jersey law. But you still may need legal help to secure full compensation for your injuries and losses. At Cockerill, Craig & Moore, LLC, you are represented by experienced personal injury lawyers who know what to do. We handle dog bite cases throughout South Jersey.

Your Rights Under New Jersey Dog Bite Law

New Jersey is a strict liability state. This means that pet owners are automatically liable when their animals bite someone. It does not matter if the dog never bit anyone before or showed any vicious behavior. It does not matter if the bite occurred in the owner’s yard or if the dog was on a leash or chain. If the victim was on public property or lawfully on private property, the dog owner is accountable.

Strict liability only applies to bites. Sometimes dogs cause other injuries. A big dog jumps up, knocking a person to the ground. A territorial dog chases someone, causing them to trip and fall. A vicious dog gets loose, terrorizing children or attacking other pets. In these cases, the dog’s owner can still be held responsible if they were negligent in failing to control their animal. Our attorneys know how to establish that the owner was at fault.

Your Advocates in The Legal Process

Our experienced lawyers have pursued many dog bite cases, including large recoveries for severe and permanent injuries. In fact, our biggest injury settlement in 2021 involved injuries inflicted by a dog. We will help pursue all damages from a dog bite or attack, which may include:

• Treatment of bite wounds and infection
• Nerve damage
• Plastic surgery
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma requiring psychological counseling

In many cases, the victim knows the dog and the owner. This can be an awkward situation  — suing a neighbor, friend or relative — but the compensation typically is paid by their homeowners insurance policy. Our team will deal with the insurance company and, if necessary, with the dog owner.

Work With a Trusted Team

Cockerill, Craig & Moore, LLC provides compassionate support and responsive service throughout your recovery from an animal attack. We offer a free consultation in our Woodbury office or over the phone to address your specific questions. Call 856-440-1231 or contact us online and we will respond soon.