If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in New Jersey, you’re likely wondering: How much can I sue for a dog bite?
Dog bite settlements in New Jersey typically range from $15,000 to over $400,000, depending on the severity of the injuries, emotional trauma, and the circumstances of the attack.
At The Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C., we help victims understand their legal rights, pursue full compensation, and stand up to insurance companies that often try to minimize payouts. Read on to learn how New Jersey’s strict liability laws apply to dog bite cases, what factors impact settlement amounts, and how an experienced dog bite lawyer can help you recover what you deserve.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws in New Jersey
New Jersey follows a strict liability law when it comes to dog bite cases. Under NJSA § 4:19-16, a dog owner is legally responsible if their dog bites someone—regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior before.
This means you don’t need to prove that the dog had a history of biting or that the owner was negligent. As long as the bite happened in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property, the owner can be held accountable.
There are exceptions. If the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or otherwise acting unlawfully at the time of the incident, compensation may be reduced or denied. In some cases, courts may also consider comparative negligence, which means your settlement could be lowered if you’re found partially at fault.
Understanding how these laws apply to your case is essential—and that’s where having experienced dog bite lawyers makes all the difference.
In a recent New Jersey case, a 10-year-old girl suffered a facial bite near the eye, chin, and cheek. The child received 24 stitches and developed visible scarring. The case settled for $385,000, reflecting the emotional and physical impact of the injury.
Determining Liability and Fault
Establishing liability in a dog bite case starts with showing that the dog owner was legally responsible for the incident. Thanks to New Jersey’s strict liability statute, this is often straightforward—but certain circumstances can complicate things.
If the dog bite occurred on the dog owner’s property, you must have been there lawfully for the law to apply. Trespassing, provoking the animal, or ignoring posted warnings could impact your ability to recover damages. These factors may lead to claims of comparative negligence, where both parties share some responsibility. If you’re found partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced accordingly.
Liability can also hinge on documentation. Witness statements, animal control reports, and evidence showing the dog’s aggressive behavior can strengthen your case and protect you from unfair blame. It’s critical to act quickly so important evidence doesn’t disappear.
At The Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C., we investigate every angle to hold negligent dog owners accountable and ensure dog bite victims aren’t left paying the price for someone else’s irresponsibility.
Evaluating Injury Severity
The severity of a dog bite injury plays a major role in how much compensation you may be entitled to. From minor puncture wounds to permanent disfigurement, the extent of the damage directly affects the value of your dog bite claim.
One way to assess injury severity is through the Dunbar Dog Bite Scale, a widely used benchmark that categorizes bites into six levels:
- Level 1–2: No skin puncture or only minor contact. These cases often result in lower or no compensation.
- Level 3: Shallow punctures, usually requiring medical care and possibly resulting in settlements of $10,000 to $25,000.
- Level 4: Deep puncture wounds and tissue damage. These injuries may lead to moderate settlements, ranging from $30,000 to $75,000.
- Level 5–6: Multiple deep bites or fatal attacks. These cases can trigger severe injury settlements exceeding $100,000 or more.
Medical records, photos, and expert evaluations are essential in proving the level of injury. Some victims may also suffer emotional trauma, such as anxiety or PTSD, which can significantly increase the overall value of a dog bite case.
If you’ve sustained a serious injury, especially one that requires extensive medical treatment, an experienced dog bite attorney can help ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Factors That Influence Dog Bite Settlements
Every dog bite case is different, but several key factors commonly affect how much compensation a victim can recover. Understanding these elements is critical to building a strong case and ensuring a fair settlement.
1. Severity of the Injury
The more serious the injury, the higher the potential settlement. Bites that require stitches, surgery, or lead to permanent disfigurement or nerve damage often result in larger awards. In cases involving severe injuries, settlements can exceed $100,000.
2. Medical Expenses and Future Treatment
All related medical bills—from emergency care to reconstructive surgery—are recoverable. Claims may also include future costs for ongoing care, therapy, or assistive devices needed due to the injury.
3. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If the injury forced you to miss work or impacted your ability to earn a living, those lost wages can be included in your claim. In some cases, long-term or permanent impairment can result in higher compensation.
4. Pain and Suffering
Dog bite victims often experience lasting emotional distress, anxiety around animals, or reduced quality of life. These non-economic damages can significantly increase the total settlement amount.
5. The Dog’s History and Aggressive Behavior
If the dog had previously shown signs of aggression, this may support your case. Evidence of the dog’s aggressive tendencies—especially if the owner ignored known risks—can impact both liability and damages.
6. Insurance Coverage
Most settlements are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance. The available coverage limits can influence how much is realistically recoverable.
At The Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C., we consider all these factors when evaluating your dog bite claim to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts
Dog bite settlements in New Jersey can vary widely based on the facts of each case. While no two injuries are alike, past results can help set expectations for what victims might recover.
Typical Settlement Ranges
- Minor Injuries: Settlements generally range from $10,000 to $25,000. These cases often involve bruises, scratches, or minor puncture wounds that heal without complications.
- Moderate Injuries: Victims with injuries requiring stitches or therapy may receive between $30,000 and $75,000. In one Middlesex County case, a victim who suffered physical injuries and PTSD secured a $50,000 settlement.
- Severe Injuries: Permanent damage, disfigurement, or long-term medical treatment can lead to settlements of $100,000 or more. A child who lost part of his ear in an attack received $950,000, while his sister was awarded $50,000 for emotional distress.
- High-End Cases: Dog attacks with aggravating circumstances—such as being bitten on your own doorstep or by a leashed dog—have resulted in settlements of $300,000 to $350,000.
- Extraordinary Cases: In rare situations involving extreme trauma or negligence, dog bite settlements can exceed $400,000. One Essex County case settled for $495,000, covering medical costs and long-term effects.
National Comparison
The average dog bite settlement in the U.S. is around $58,000, but New Jersey often sees higher payouts due to the state’s strict liability laws and dense urban environments where serious attacks may be more common.
Ultimately, the settlement amount depends on factors like injury severity, emotional harm, insurance coverage, and legal representation. Having the right legal team can make all the difference in your recovery.
Want to understand the legal process in more detail? Learn how to file a dog bite claim or lawsuit in New Jersey, including what to expect, how long it takes, and how an attorney can guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors influence the settlement amount for a dog bite?
Settlement amounts depend on the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, and insurance coverage. Cases involving permanent damage or scarring often result in higher compensation.
How does New Jersey’s strict liability law affect dog bite cases?
New Jersey’s strict liability statute holds dog owners responsible for bites, even if the dog had no history of aggression. As long as the victim was legally on the property, the owner can be liable.
What are the typical medical expenses covered in a dog bite settlement?
Settlements may cover emergency room visits, follow-up care, surgery, medications, psychological therapy, and any necessary future treatment.
Can I sue if a service dog bit me?
Possibly. While some service dog attacks may fall under exceptions to liability, each case is unique. It’s important to speak with a dog bite attorney to understand your legal options.
How can a dog bite lawyer help maximize my settlement?
A lawyer will handle insurance negotiations, collect evidence, and ensure all damages are fully documented. With experienced representation, victims are far more likely to receive full and fair compensation.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a dog bite case without legal support can be overwhelming—especially when you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies focused on protecting their bottom line. That’s where working with an experienced dog bite attorney makes a real difference.
A skilled personal injury lawyer will:
- Investigate the incident and gather strong evidence
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Calculate your damages—including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Determine how much your case is truly worth using methods like the multiplier or per diem approach
- Prepare your case for trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered
Insurance adjusters often aim to settle for the lowest possible amount. Having legal representation signals that you’re serious about your rights—and ensures you’re not taken advantage of.
At The Law Office of Peter Briskin, P.C., we take pride in standing up for victims of dog bite incidents. We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our goal is simple: to secure the maximum compensation you need to move forward.
Contact us today at (908) 279-7979 for a free consultation, and let us help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
