New Jersey Dog Bite Injuries

Families across the state of New Jersey enjoy the company of their dogs. People get dogs for a number of reasons including companionship and protection. Unfortunately, dogs bred specifically for protection are known to attack people. Attacks often occur when a dog feels threatened, and can even occur among typically well-mannered dogs.

Though most dogs assimilate well in their community, some cause problems. With over 70 million dogs living in the United States, it’s not inconceivable for there to be some bad apples. Sometimes a dog’s aggressive behavior can be attributed directly to the actions of their owner. Improperly cared for dogs can become aggressive, and some owners even train their dogs to attack. A 2009 study conducted by the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality concluded that the majority of attacks resulting in hospitalization are perpetrated by pit bulls. Pit bulls were found to be the most aggressive breed, and that they also committed the most attacks that occurred off the owner’s property. A 2014 study also found pit bulls to be the biggest threat, but noted attacks from Rottweilers, Huskies, Wolf hybrids, Bullmastiffs, and German Shepherds among a few other breeds as well.

Some injuries suffered from dog bites include:

• Lacerations, punctures, and abrasions
• Contusions, cranial injuries, and hematoma
• Cellulitis and infections
• Fractures and dislocations
• Amputations, avulsions, and broken bones

Injuries like these can range from minor to life threatening. In some occasions, fatalities occur. Like other dog bite injuries, most fatalities result from pit bull attacks. A 2001 study conducted by the Center for Disease Control found that dogs more commonly attack adults than children, but many children still do suffer attacks. Among children, the most common to suffer hospitalization are 5-9 years old.

Recovering from attacks like these can be painful, expensive, and time consuming. Many cases require hospitalization, and some require surgery and aftercare. The victims of dog attacks may have physical injuries as well as mental trauma such as PTSD in the wake of an attack. Victims like these are entitled to monetary compensation. If you, or a loved one, have suffered from a dog attack, you are well within your rights to file a lawsuit for damages. It is always recommended that you undertake a case like this with the help of a qualified attorney. If you have any questions regarding lawsuits or dog bite injuries, please contact the law offices of Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C.. We can be reached at (609) 240-0040.