Getting attacked by any animal is a scary experience, but it can be especially harrowing when “man’s best friend” turns on you. A dog attack can be so frightening and often leaves behind psychological trauma along with serious wounds. If someone else’s dog attacked you and you believe that negligence played a role, you may want to sue for damages. Our Monmouth County dog bite attorneys can help you do that.
When Can I Sue Over a Dog Attack or Bite?
You can sue over a dog attack or bite in many cases. You just have to argue that:
- You were legally present somewhere, in a public or private place
- You did not provoke the animal
- The owner knew that a bite or attack could happen based on the dog’s past behavior
If you were trespassing or bothering an animal, then it’s unlikely that you have legal recourse here.
What Should I Do After a Dog Attack?
After a dog attack, you need to take steps to protect yourself and begin building a case. You should take pictures first if you are able, making sure that you capture:
- The place where you were attacked
- Any injuries you suffered
- Dangerous conditions that led to the attack, like a hole in a fence or a wide open door
Then you need to get medical care. Document everything and keep copies of photos, police reports, and medical bills. These can all potentially serve as evidence in your case. We also recommend that you avoid making statements to any insurance company that calls you. You do not want to say anything that they can twist and use against you.
How Long Do I Have to Sue After a Dog Attack?
It is important to remember that New Jersey has a statute of limitations for cases like this. You have just two years to sue if you decide that you want to seek out compensation. This can seem like a while, but the time can pass by surprisingly quickly. This is why it can be a good idea to contact a lawyer early on. You can focus on getting back to life as usual and let our firm handle the paperwork.
Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?
A personal injury attorney cannot guarantee a certain outcome, but you can be sure that they will fight by your side in an effort to get the best possible result. Your lawyer can help you gather evidence, speak to insurance companies on your behalf, and calculate fair compensation. It can be hard to navigate the legal system and face down big insurance companies and experienced lawyers on your own. Our legal team is more than ready for that.
Contact Our Office
If you are considering a lawsuit, talk to our legal team first. You can contact the Wilton Law Firm and schedule a consultation. We would love to tell you more about how we can help and what your legal options might look like.
