A dog attack can happen in seconds, but the physical and emotional aftermath can last much longer. If you or someone you love was bitten in New Jersey, one of the first questions on your mind is probably how much your claim is worth. The honest answer is that it depends, but understanding what goes into that number can help you make sense of what you are owed.
How New Jersey law treats dog bite liability
Unlike states that require you to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous, New Jersey holds dog owners strictly liable for bites. As long as the dog was not provoked, this legal standard can make it easier to establish your claim and pursue the full value of your damages.
What your claim can actually include
A dog bite claim is not just about the wound itself. New Jersey law allows injured victims to seek compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Costs for emergency care, stitches, surgery, infection treatment and any ongoing medical needs tied to the injury.
- Scarring and disfigurement: Costs related to visible scarring, especially on the face or hands, which can increase the value of a claim.
- Emotional trauma: Costs associated with anxiety, fear of dogs, nightmares and post-traumatic stress.
- Lost net income: The after-tax value of wages lost due to missed work during recovery, including reduced hours or an inability to return to your job.
- Lost school time: For children, the impact of missed school days and disruption to daily routines on their overall recovery and well-being.
Together, these damages paint a fuller picture of how a dog bite affects your life beyond the initial injury.
Why the value of your claim varies
No two dog bite claims are worth the same amount. The severity of the injury, the visibility of scarring, the length of recovery and the impact on your daily life all play a role. While insurance companies often try to settle quickly, their initial offers rarely cover the full scope of your damages. Settling too early can leave significant compensation on the table, which is why speaking with a personal injury attorney before agreeing to anything matters.