If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in New Jersey, you’re likely facing a whirlwind of pain, medical visits, insurance calls, and uncertainty. One of the biggest questions on your mind might be: how long will it take to reach a settlement? While every case is different, there are general timelines and key factors that can influence the pace of your dog bite claim.
At The Law Offices of Peter Briskin, P.C., we understand that time matters. You need answers, support, and compensation — and we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.
What Factors Affect the Timeline of a Dog Bite Settlement?
A dog bite case in New Jersey can resolve in just a few months or stretch into a year or more depending on several factors:
- Severity of the Injury: Minor injuries with quick recovery may settle faster. Severe injuries — such as those requiring surgery, leaving scarring, or involving infection — can take longer to resolve because medical treatment may still be ongoing.
- Liability Disputes: New Jersey follows strict liability for dog bites. That means a dog owner is usually responsible, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. But if there’s a dispute about whether the bite occurred or if another party might be partially at fault, the case can be delayed.
- Insurance Company Response: Some insurance carriers will make a lowball offer quickly. Others delay or deny liability altogether, requiring more negotiation or litigation to reach a fair outcome.
- Medical Documentation: A settlement should reflect the full scope of your injuries — including future treatment, therapy, and long-term impact. If you’re still being treated, it may be best to wait until your condition stabilizes (known as reaching “maximum medical improvement”) before settling.
- Whether a Lawsuit Is Filed: Many dog bite claims are resolved through negotiation without going to court. But if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we may need to file a lawsuit — which can extend the timeline significantly.
Typical Dog Bite Settlement Timeline in New Jersey
Here’s a general overview of what to expect in terms of timing:
| Stage of the Case | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Medical Treatment & Recovery | A few weeks to several months |
| Investigation & Evidence Collection | 1–3 months |
| Settlement Negotiations | 2–6 months (longer if disputed) |
| Filing a Lawsuit (if necessary) | Can extend timeline 6–18+ months |
While these are averages, no two cases are alike. At The Law Offices of Peter Briskin, P.C., we develop a personalized strategy for each client to ensure we’re moving at a pace that protects both your health and your legal interests.
Should You Wait to Settle a Dog Bite Claim?
It’s tempting to take a quick payout, especially when medical bills are piling up or you’re unable to work. But rushing into a settlement can mean leaving money on the table — especially if future surgeries, infections, or psychological trauma emerge later.
An experienced New Jersey dog bite attorney can help assess the true value of your claim, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or PTSD
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
Our firm’s 25+ years of combined experience have taught us that a full and fair settlement is worth waiting for — and we’re not afraid to stand up to insurance companies to get it.
How The Law Offices of Peter Briskin Can Help
Navigating a dog bite claim alone can be overwhelming. When you work with our legal team, you’ll have:
- A personalized legal strategy tailored to your case
- Direct access to attorneys who understand the emotional and financial toll of a dog bite
- Aggressive negotiation with insurers who often try to minimize payouts
- The power of a firm that has recovered millions for personal injury victims across New Jersey and New York
We don’t see you as just another claim. We understand that a dog bite can turn your life upside down — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in New Jersey, don’t wait to get the help you need. Timing is critical — not just for your health, but for preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Call The Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C. at (908) 279-7979 for a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
