A dog attack can be a traumatic and life-changing event, often leaving victims with serious physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial difficulties. Many victims of dog bites suffer from deep lacerations, nerve damage, broken bones, and long-term psychological effects such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our Fair Lawn dog bite lawyers are here to provide the legal support you need.

 

Medical and Financial Burdens of a Dog Bite

In some cases, these injuries require extensive medical treatment, including reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, and even long-term disability care. The financial burden of a dog bite injury can be overwhelming, as victims may face costly medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing therapy expenses.

How Our Law Firm Can Help
At The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., we understand the profound impact that a dog bite can have on your life. Our legal team has decades of experience handling personal injury cases, including dog bite claims in Fair Lawn, NJ. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of dog bite victims and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, do not delay in seeking legal assistance. Contact The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help.

 

Why Choose The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., for Your Dog Bite Case?

Expertise in Dog Bite and Personal Injury Law
Choosing the right attorney for your dog bite claim in Fair Lawn can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Many personal injury firms handle a wide variety of cases, but The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., has extensive experience specifically in dog bite and animal attack cases.

Our firm has successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for victims of personal injury and is well known for our aggressive advocacy and client-centered approach.

Decades of Experience Fighting for Victims
With over 25 years of experience, our legal team has deep knowledge of New Jersey dog bite laws and a strong understanding of how courts in Fair Lawn and Bergen County operate. We do not believe in treating clients like case numbers. Every client receives personalized attention and legal strategies tailored to their unique situation.

We Stand Up to Insurance Companies
Insurance companies frequently undervalue dog bite claims and attempt to settle quickly for far less than the case is worth. We fight back against these tactics and negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive full and fair compensation. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to trial to achieve the best possible result.

 

Understanding New Jersey Dog Bite Laws

Strict Liability for Dog Owners
New Jersey has a strict liability law when it comes to dog bites. Unlike some states where a dog owner is only liable if their dog has a history of aggression, New Jersey law holds dog owners responsible for all injuries caused by their pet, regardless of whether the dog has bitten someone before.

No Need to Prove Negligence
This means that a victim of a dog bite does not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent. If a dog bite occurred while the victim was lawfully on public or private property, the owner is automatically liable for any injuries caused.

Common Defenses Dog Owners May Use
However, in some cases, a dog owner may attempt to avoid liability by arguing that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing. These defenses can be complicated, but our legal team knows how to build a strong case to counter such claims.

 

Common Injuries Sustained in Dog Attacks

Dog bites can cause serious and sometimes permanent injuries. The severity of these injuries depends on factors such as the size and strength of the dog, the location of the bite, and the force of the attack. Some victims suffer lifelong physical and emotional effects from a dog bite.

Puncture Wounds and Infections
Puncture wounds are one of the most common injuries in dog attacks. These wounds can penetrate deep into the skin, damaging muscles, tendons, and nerves. Because dog saliva contains bacteria, puncture wounds can also lead to serious infections, such as sepsis, tetanus, and rabies.

Broken Bones and Fractures
Broken bones and fractures are also common in dog attacks, especially when a powerful dog bites down on an arm or leg with significant force. In some cases, victims fall during an attack and suffer additional injuries, such as fractured wrists, hip injuries, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These injuries may require surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term therapy.

Scarring, Disfigurement, and Psychological Trauma
Scarring and disfigurement are frequent consequences of dog bite injuries, particularly when the attack involves the face, hands, or arms. Some victims require multiple reconstructive surgeries to repair torn skin and muscle tissue.

Psychological trauma is another serious consequence of dog bite injuries. Many victims experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD following an attack.

 

What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury in Fair Lawn, NJ

Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you have been bitten by a dog, taking immediate action is essential to protect your health and legal rights. Seeking medical treatment right away ensures that any potential infections or complications are addressed as quickly as possible.

Report the Incident to Authorities
Reporting the attack to Fair Lawn Animal Control or local law enforcement helps create official documentation of the incident.

Gather Evidence to Support Your Claim
Gathering evidence, including photographs of your injuries, contact information for witnesses, and details about the dog owner, can strengthen your claim. Avoid discussing the attack with the dog owner’s insurance company without consulting our Fair Lawn dog bite lawyers, as they may try to minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting a low settlement.

 

How Much Compensation Can You Receive for a Dog Bite in Fair Lawn?

Every dog bite case is different, but compensation typically includes:

  1. Medical Expenses – Hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical costs.
  2. Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work due to the injury.
  3. Pain & Suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and physical pain.
  4. Scarring & Disfigurement – Compensation for permanent scars or deformities.

The average settlement for dog bite cases in New Jersey ranges from $30,000 to $150,000, but severe cases involving permanent injuries can be worth significantly more.

 

Contact The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., Today

Dog bite injuries can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in Fair Lawn, NJ, do not wait to seek legal representation. The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., is ready to fight for your rights and ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let our Fair Lawn dog bite lawyers help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases in Fair Lawn, NJ

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

The first thing you should do is seek medical attention, even if the bite seems minor. Dog bites can lead to serious infections or complications if not treated properly. After receiving medical care, report the incident to local authorities or Fair Lawn Animal Control. If possible, document your injuries by taking photographs and gathering witness contact information. Identifying the dog owner and obtaining their contact details can also be crucial for your case. It is advisable to contact a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

Can I sue for a dog bite in New Jersey?

Yes, New Jersey follows a strict liability law, meaning that dog owners are automatically responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before. If you were lawfully on public or private property when the bite occurred, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, if you were trespassing or provoked the dog, the owner may try to use these defenses to deny liability. Our Fair Lawn dog bite lawyers can help determine the strength of your claim and fight for fair compensation.

What type of compensation can I recover for a dog bite injury?

Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical bills, including emergency treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care required for long-term recovery. If the injury prevents you from working, you may be eligible for lost wages, both past and future. Compensation for pain and suffering is also considered, especially if the bite has resulted in emotional distress, PTSD, or permanent scarring. In cases of severe disfigurement, additional damages may be awarded for the psychological impact of the injury.

How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Fair Lawn, NJ?

Under New Jersey law, you have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. If you fail to file your claim within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It is crucial to consult with a dog bite attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your case is filed on time and that all necessary evidence is gathered.

What if the dog that bit me belongs to a friend or family member?

Many dog bite victims are reluctant to file a claim if the dog owner is a friend, neighbor, or family member. However, in most cases, compensation is paid by the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance policy, not directly by the owner. You should not have to bear the financial burden of your injury out of concern for the dog owner. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process while maintaining good relations with the dog owner.

Testimonials

We want to express our deepest gratitude for the exceptional work you did to insure that our father’s unfortunate accident did not go unrecognized; my dear dad would have appreciated your professionalism, unstoppable work ethic and most of all your compassion every step of the way. Please know we have the highest regard and the utmost respect for you.

Deb & Joe

Thank you again for all of your help, support and advice. You’ve made a trying and difficult time much easier to deal with for my family and myself. You will never have any idea how much your efforts were, and will forever be appreciated.

F. D.