Understanding Dog Bite Injury Claims: A Guide from Bergen County’s Top-Rated Dog Bite Lawyers

By Doug Standriff on June 28, 2024

Dog bites can have severe, life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, understanding your rights and knowing how to proceed is crucial. At Bergen Law, our top-rated dog bite lawyers, Douglas Standriff and Marissa Messinger, are dedicated to helping victims navigate the complexities of dog bite injury claims and obtain the compensation they deserve.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Common injuries include:

• Puncture Wounds, Cuts, and Bruises: These can lead to significant blood loss and require medical attention to prevent infection.
• Scars: Permanent scarring can result from deep bites, affecting both appearance and self-esteem.
• Broken Bones: Severe bites can break or fracture bones, necessitating extensive medical treatment.
• Eye Injuries: Bites near the face can damage the eyes, potentially leading to vision loss.
• Head, Face, and Neck Injuries: These areas are particularly vulnerable and injuries can be especially dangerous.
• Nerve Damage: Bites can sever nerves, causing long-term or permanent loss of function.
• Risk of Rabies: Rabies is a fatal viral infection that requires immediate medical intervention.

Beyond the physical harm, victims may also suffer emotionally, experiencing trauma and anxiety long after the incident has occurred.

The Legal Landscape of Dog Bite Claims in New Jersey

In New Jersey, dog owners are generally held liable for injuries their pets cause. This includes paying for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. However, the legal process can be complex, and navigating it without expert guidance can be daunting.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney

Hiring a specialized dog bite attorney is critical for several reasons:

1. Expert Knowledge of the Law: Attorneys like Douglas Standriff and Marissa Messinger have a deep understanding of New Jersey’s leash and dog bite laws, ensuring your case is handled correctly.
2. Evidence Gathering: Building a strong case requires thorough evidence collection, from medical records to witness statements. Our attorneys are skilled in gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim.
3. Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our expert negotiators know how to counter these tactics to get you the compensation you deserve.
4. Trial Experience: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, having an attorney with extensive trial experience is invaluable. Douglas Standriff is a Certified Civil Trial Attorney with a proven track record of success in the courtroom.
5. Avoiding Denial of Claims: Prompt legal action is crucial as there are time limits for filing personal injury lawsuits in New Jersey. Our attorneys will ensure all deadlines are met and procedural requirements are followed to avoid any denial of your claim.

A Case Study: The Importance of Timely Legal Action

Consider a recent case where a child was bitten by a Rottweiler just three days after the family obtained the dog from a training facility. The parents sued the facility, alleging it failed to disclose the dog’s dangerous history. The facility countersued, claiming the parents were liable as the legal owners. The court ultimately held the parents responsible under New Jersey’s Dog Bite statute. This case underscores the importance of consulting an experienced attorney immediately following a dog bite incident to explore all potential legal avenues and protect your rights.

Why Choose Bergen Law?

1. Results-Driven Strategy: Our attorneys develop effective legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation.
2. Expert Negotiation: We leverage our knowledge of how insurers evaluate claims to secure the best possible outcomes.
3. Extensive Trial Experience: Certified Civil Trial Attorney Douglas Standriff brings unparalleled trial expertise to your case.
4. Proven Success: We have successfully obtained tens of millions of dollars for our clients through settlements and lawsuits.
5. Free Consultation: We offer a no-obligation, confidential consultation to evaluate your case and discuss your options.

Contact Us Today

For over 30 years, Bergen Law has been committed to advocating for dog bite victims in Bergen County. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve. Douglas Standriff and Marissa Messinger are ready to fight for your rights and help you navigate this challenging time with expert legal guidance.