Unlike many states, NJ holds owners strictly liable for bites. What that means for victims. This guide explains what New Jersey injury victims should understand, why the details matter to your recovery, and how Injury Claim Team connects you with experienced attorneys who handle these cases across all 21 counties.
New Jersey's Strict-Liability Rule
New Jersey is a strict-liability state for dog bites. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, an owner is liable for a bite regardless of whether the dog showed prior viciousness, as long as the victim was lawfully on the property. This makes New Jersey more protective of bite victims than many states that follow a “one-bite” rule.
What Victims Can Recover
Dog-bite victims may recover medical costs, future treatment for scarring or reconstructive surgery, lost income, and compensation for pain and emotional trauma — which is often significant, particularly for children.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Injured people often unknowingly weaken their own claims — by delaying medical care, giving recorded statements to the other side's insurer, posting about the incident on social media, or accepting a fast settlement before the full extent of their injuries is known. Each of these can reduce or eliminate a recovery that would otherwise be available.
How Injury Claim Team Helps
Injury Claim Team is not a law firm — we are a service that connects injured New Jerseyans with experienced, independent personal injury attorneys who handle cases like yours. There is no cost to speak with us, and our network attorneys work on contingency: no fee unless they win. Call 973-566-5599 or request a free, confidential review online, and a specialist will reach out within the hour.
Free case review: Questions about your New Jersey injury? Call 973-566-5599 for a free, confidential consultation. No fee unless you win.