Can A Delivery Driver Sue For A Dog Bite In Bergen County, NJ?

By Doug Standriff on April 1, 2025

Delivery drivers are essential to everyday life, but they often face unexpected risks while on the job. One of the more serious risks comes from dog bites. In Bergen County, NJ, delivery drivers may find themselves in dangerous situations when dogs attack.

But can a delivery driver sue for a dog bite? The short answer is yes, they can. However, like any legal situation, there are specific steps and factors to consider. Let’s explore what happens if a delivery driver is bitten by a dog and how a dog bite lawyer can help seek compensation for injuries.

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?

When a delivery driver is bitten by a dog while performing their duties, the question of liability is one of the first issues that needs to be addressed. In New Jersey, the owner of a dog is generally responsible for any harm that the dog causes. This is true even if the owner wasn’t aware that the dog had a tendency to bite or act aggressively. Under New Jersey’s strict liability laws, the dog owner is typically held accountable for injuries caused by their pet.

However, there are some exceptions. If the delivery driver was trespassing on private property or provoked the dog, the liability of the dog owner could be reduced or even eliminated. It’s important to establish the circumstances of the bite to determine if the owner is indeed responsible.

What Happens If Your Dog Bites A Delivery Driver?

If your dog bites a delivery driver, several things could happen. First, the driver is likely to seek medical treatment for the injuries caused by the bite. In addition to immediate medical expenses, there may be long-term costs such as rehabilitation or therapy, especially if the bite resulted in severe injuries like nerve damage or scarring.

The delivery driver could also report the incident to local authorities or animal control. This may trigger an investigation into the dog’s behavior and the circumstances surrounding the bite. Depending on the severity of the bite, animal control might quarantine the dog or issue penalties to the dog’s owner.

From a legal perspective, the driver may pursue a personal injury claim against the dog owner for damages. This claim could include medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, and other associated costs. If the delivery driver is employed by a company, the company could also get involved in the claim, potentially seeking compensation for any business disruptions caused by the injury.

The Legal Rights of Delivery Drivers in NJ

In New Jersey, delivery drivers have the right to seek compensation for injuries resulting from a dog bite under the state’s personal injury laws. The delivery driver can file a lawsuit against the dog owner for damages if they were bitten while making a delivery. The lawsuit would seek compensation for:

Medical Costs: Immediate and ongoing treatment for injuries caused by the dog bite.
Loss of Income: When injuries prevent the driver from working, they may be entitled to recover compensation for the earnings they’ve missed.
Pain and Suffering: This includes both physical pain and emotional distress caused by the dog bite.
Property Damage: If the dog bite resulted in damage to the delivery vehicle or any other personal property, the driver could also seek compensation for that.

Delivery drivers have the same rights as any other victim of a dog attack. They can pursue claims for compensation and may even be entitled to a settlement if the dog owner’s insurance covers such incidents.

What to Do If You’re a Delivery Driver and Get Bitten by a Dog

Get Medical Attention: The first priority is to address any injuries. Dog bites can lead to infections, so you must see a doctor as soon as possible. A medical professional can properly clean and treat the wound, reducing the risk of infection.
Document the Incident: Take note of all the details surrounding the incident. This includes the time, location, and any interactions with the dog before the bite. If possible, take photos of the injury and the location of the bite.
Report the Incident: Report the dog bite to local authorities or animal control. This helps create an official record of the incident and ensures that the dog is properly assessed for rabies or other risks.
Gather Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the dog bite, their statements could be valuable in proving the dog owner’s liability. You should should gather as much information as possible.
Consult with a Lawyer: After seeking medical attention and reporting the incident, consult with a certified civil trial attorney who specializes in dog bite cases. A lawyer can help you understand your legal options and how to pursue a claim for compensation.

Dog Attacks Delivery Driver: What Happens Next?

When a dog attacks a delivery driver, it’s important for both the driver and the dog owner to understand the legal implications. If the dog owner is found to be at fault for the bite, they may be held liable for the damages. This could include paying for medical bills, covering lost wages, and providing compensation for pain and suffering.

In some cases, a dog’s insurance policy may cover the costs of the attack. However, if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance, they may be required to pay out of pocket. The severity of the bite and the circumstances surrounding the attack will play a large role in determining the final settlement or court award.

Injured by a Dog While Making a Delivery in Bergen County? Get Legal Help Today

If you’ve been bitten by a dog while making a delivery, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At Bergen Law, our team, led by experienced attorney Douglas Standriff, has been advocating for injured individuals for 30 years. We specialize in dog bite injury cases and know the ins and outs of New Jersey law. We will work with you to gather evidence, navigate the legal complexities, and get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us now to protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.