Sophia Soraya
September 15, 2022
Dog bite victims may suffer severe muscle, nerves, blood vessels, or bone injuries. In addition, they may get other infections like rabies, tetanus, blisters, or boils. Unfortunately, treatment of some dog bites involves expensive reconstructive surgery, skin repair, medication, and regular doctor visits.
That said, a dog can inflict a life-changing injury, and victims deserve full compensation. A New Jersey dog bite lawyer can represent you as you seek to recover damages for your injuries from the dog owner or another responsible party.
According to the statistics, about 4.5 million people are bitten each year by dogs. Among the victims, 800,000 require medical attention, with children at a higher risk of severe injuries.
Common Places Where Dog Bites Occur
Family Homes
Dog bites can happen while you are visiting the home of a family or friend. There’s a significant risk of dog bites in a relative’s, friend’s, or neighbor’s home, even if you have met the dog before.
Children are more vulnerable to dog bites and are likely to suffer severe injuries at someone’s home. Surprisingly, some kids have suffered bites from breeds with no history of biting, like Labrador retrievers, German shepherds, or American cocker spaniels.
Due to familiarity with a dog, parents might drop their guard, increasing children’s risk of dog bites. A dog who has known you or your child for years might suddenly get triggered and bite someone in your family, causing serious injury.
Many people are hesitant to bring a dog bite claim against someone they know, but homeowner’s insurance generally covers the losses – not your friend or neighbor personally.
Public Parks or Beaches
People love walking their dogs in public parks, which poses dog bite risks. Undersocialized dogs can easily bite strangers when frightened by minor things. Even if a dog owner takes all the right steps when walking their dog in the park or on a sidewalk, the dog can be unpredictable, and the owner can still be liable.
A friendly dog that’s not restrained can bite a stranger on the beach. Despite the dog’s temperament, many things can trigger a bite. Here are the risk factors for dog bites on a public beach:
- The dog is away from its owner
- An injured or sick dog
- An isolated dog that’s spending time alone
- A dog that’s playing with a toy
A point to note: Dogs use body language to relay information. Therefore, look for postures, vocalization, or gestures to get cues on their temperament or intentions. Although it’s difficult to read them accurately, you can get helpful hints when they’re threatened, frightened, or friendly.
Contact an Experienced New Jersey Dog Bite Lawyer
Paying related costs of dog bites out of pocket puts you at risk of financial harm. As such, it’s vital to work with a dedicated law firm like Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. regarding a possible claim. We apply our experience to every injury claim, including dog bites. Contact us online or call us at 866.370.1749 for a free consultation.
Sophia Soraya
Sophia Soraya is a seasoned attorney specializing in complex civil matters, with a focus on personal injury, professional malpractice, and product liability cases across New York and New Jersey. Sophia is a Partner with the Firm and has been selected as a Super Lawyers, Rising Star for consecutive years.
University: J.D. New England Law (Boston)
Bar Number: 000402013
Locations: New Jersey and New York.
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