Injured by a Dog in New Jersey? You May Be Entitled to Compensation

Dog bites are serious—and they’re more common than many people think. Victims can suffer permanent scars, nerve damage, and psychological trauma. In New Jersey, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has no history of aggression.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent dog bite victims across Cherry Hill, Camden County, and the surrounding areas. We pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and long-term care needs. If you or your child was bitten or attacked by a dog, our firm can help you file a civil injury claim and enforce your rights under New Jersey law.

New Jersey’s Dog Bite Law: What It Means for Victims

Under N.J.S.A. § 4:19-16, New Jersey follows a strict liability rule. This means:

• Dog owners are responsible for bite injuries, regardless of whether the dog showed prior signs of aggression.
• The victim does not have to prove negligence or that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
• The only requirements are that the bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.

This applies to dog bites involving adults, children, visitors, delivery personnel, and even tenants or guests on the dog owner’s property.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries We Handle

We represent clients who suffer:

• Puncture wounds and soft tissue injuries
• Facial lacerations and permanent disfigurement
• Nerve damage or impaired mobility
• Broken bones from falls or attacks
• Rabies or infection from untreated bites
• PTSD, fear of animals, or emotional trauma
• Scarring that requires reconstructive surgery
• Bites to children or elderly victims with lasting effects

Whether the bite required stitches or led to surgery and hospitalization, we help you document the full medical and financial impact of the injury.

When Dog Owners May Still Be Liable for Non-Bite Attacks

New Jersey’s strict liability law applies specifically to bites—but owners can still be sued under negligence laws for other dog-related injuries. These may include:

• Knockdowns caused by dogs jumping or lunging
• Scratches or claw injuries during an attack
• Bicycle or vehicle accidents caused by loose dogs
• Injuries caused by owners who failed to leash or control their pet
• Psychological trauma from a witnessed attack on another person or child

We build claims based on property law, local ordinances, and civil negligence to pursue full compensation.

Who We Represent in Dog Bite Lawsuits

We represent:

• Children attacked by a neighbor’s or relative’s dog
• Delivery drivers bitten while lawfully entering a property
• Pedestrians or joggers injured by loose dogs in public areas
• Tenants injured by another tenant’s or landlord’s dog
• Visitors lawfully on property when attacked
• Elderly individuals who fell or were seriously injured in dog encounters

Our firm ensures that victims are not blamed or dismissed and that all liable parties are held accountable.

Compensation Available in a New Jersey Dog Bite Claim

Depending on the case, you may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, medication)
• Lost wages and income during recovery
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress or trauma
• Permanent disfigurement or disability
• Costs of plastic or reconstructive surgery
• Therapy or counseling expenses
• Punitive damages in extreme negligence cases

Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowner’s insurance, but we handle all communications and negotiations with insurers to protect your rights.

Where We Litigate Dog Bite Cases in South Jersey

We represent plaintiffs in:

• Camden County Superior Court – Civil Division
• Burlington and Gloucester County courts
• Cherry Hill, Pennsauken, Voorhees, and Haddonfield Municipal Courts (if needed)
• Settlement and mediation forums with insurers
• Structured claims involving children or permanent injury

We guide clients through every stage, from evidence collection to settlement or trial.

Dog Bite Lawsuit FAQs for New Jersey Residents

Dog Bite Lawsuit FAQs for New Jersey Residents

Q: Do I need to prove the dog had bitten someone before?
A: No. Under New Jersey law, the owner is liable regardless of the dog’s prior behavior.

Q: Can I sue if the bite happened on private property?
A: Yes, if you were lawfully on the property. This includes social guests, delivery personnel, and tenants.

Q: What if my child was bitten by a friend or family member’s dog?
A: You may still bring a claim. The dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance often covers the damages without personal confrontation.

Q: How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in New Jersey?
A: The statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury. For children, the timeline may extend depending on age.

Q: What if the owner denies it happened or blames me?
A: We investigate, gather medical and witness evidence, and push back against these defenses aggressively.

Speak with a Cherry Hill Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you or someone you love was attacked by a dog in New Jersey, you have the right to seek compensation under state law. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we fight for injury victims across Cherry Hill and South Jersey to recover what they’re owed. Dog bite injuries can leave both physical and emotional scars—don’t navigate the legal process alone.

To schedule a consultation, call (856) 209-3111 or email [email protected]. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and pursue the recovery you deserve.