Why You Need Help Proving a Dog Bite Case

The United States is certainly a nation of dog lovers, with more than 78 million canine pets throughout the country. Though numerous studies have shown that having a dog as a pet is beneficial to the physical and emotional health of all age groups, unfortunately more than 4.7 million Americans are injured in dog attacks each year, and around 800,000 of these injuries require medical attention. More than half of the victims of dog attacks are children, many of whom suffer disfigurement and disability.

A total of 32 states, including New Jersey have implemented a dog bite statute which makes the owner liable for any injury or damage to property caused by his or her dog. Every case is different, but in general, you may be able to recover damages including:

• Medical expenses: You may be entitled to compensation for current medical expenses and future expenses if you need any rehabilitation.
• Plastic and reconstructive surgery: If you have suffered injuries that require this type of surgery you can claim compensation for the cost of the treatment.
• Lost salary: If you have had to take time off work because of treatment or disability you may be able to claim compensation.
• Lost earning capacity: If your injury leaves you with a temporary or permanent disability that affects your future ability to earn your normal income, you may be able to claim damages for this.
• Pain and suffering: This refers to compensation for any physical and mental pain you suffer as a result of your dog bite injury.
• Mental anguish: If you suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or distress, as a result of your dog bite injury, you may also be able to claim compensation for these conditions.
• Damage to personal property: You may be able to claim for damages to personal property such as clothes or personal items that were damaged during the attack.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a New Jersey dog attack, call Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. today at (609) 240-0040. Do not discuss a settlement or sign any paperwork until you have talked to a member of our legal team. We will give you a free, no-commitment consultation and let you know if you have a viable case, and how we can help you claim damages for your ordeal. We will start working on your case as soon as we hear from you.