If a dog has bitten you in Atlantic County, you have rights under New Jersey’s strict liability statute (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16). A Dog Bite Lawyer Atlantic County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
New Jersey Dog Bite Statute and Owner Liability
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Atlantic Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dogs. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites a person, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of viciousness. This means you do not need to prove the owner was negligent. The statute applies to bites occurring on public property or when the victim is lawfully on private property. An animal attack injury claim lawyer Atlantic County can explain how this law applies to your specific situation.
For cases involving other animals or attacks not covered by the dog bite statute, New Jersey’s common law negligence principles may apply. A dog owner liability lawyer Atlantic County can help determine the best legal strategy for your case.
External Citation Links
For the official text of the New Jersey dog bite statute, see N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and rules, visit the Superior Court of NJ, Atlantic Vicinage website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Atlantic County
- Seek Medical Attention: Get treatment immediately. Document all injuries with photos and medical records.
- Report the Bite: File a report with Atlantic County Animal Control or local police. This creates an official record.
- Identify the Owner: Gather the dog owner’s name, address, and insurance information.
- Preserve Evidence: Save clothing, take photos of the scene, and get witness contact information.
- Contact a Lawyer: Call a Dog Bite Lawyer Atlantic County before speaking to any insurance adjuster.
- File Your Claim: Your lawyer will file a demand letter and, if necessary, a lawsuit within the 2-year statute of limitations.
Potential Damages in a Dog Bite Case
In Atlantic County, a dog bite victim may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
| Type of Damage | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Emergency room visits, surgery, reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, medication |
| Lost Wages | Time missed from work due to injury and recovery |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain, emotional distress, scarring, and disfigurement |
| Future Medical Costs | Ongoing treatment, counseling for PTSD, future surgeries |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
E-E-A-T Authority Block
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has been representing injury victims since 1997. Our firm-wide track record includes thousands of successful case results across New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Washington D.C. We bring this depth of experience to every dog bite case in Atlantic County.
Case Results
While specific locality case results for Atlantic County dog bite cases are not available, firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Pack Trigger Block
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Atlantic County courts, accessible via the Garden State Parkway, Atlantic City Expressway, Route 30, Route 40, and Route 9. We serve Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway, Hamilton Township, Pleasantville, Hammonton, Absecon, Ventnor, Linwood, Brigantine, and Margate.
Looking for a Dog Bite Lawyer Atlantic County near you? We are near the Atlantic County courthouses in Mays Landing and Atlantic City.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims in Atlantic County
Does New Jersey’s strict liability law apply to all dog bites?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, a dog owner is strictly liable for damages if their dog bites a person, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of viciousness.
What is the statute of limitations for a dog bite claim in Atlantic County?
It depends. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Jersey is 2 years from the date of the injury. For dog bites, this means you have 2 years from the bite date to file a lawsuit.
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the dog bite?
It depends. New Jersey follows modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you are barred from recovery.
What damages can I recover in a dog bite case?
You can recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement, and future medical costs. New Jersey does not cap personal injury damages, so your compensation depends on the severity of your injuries.
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim in Atlantic County?
Yes. Insurance companies often try to settle dog bite claims for less than they are worth. A Dog Bite Lawyer Atlantic County can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate for full compensation.
What if the dog owner has no insurance or assets?
It depends. If the owner has no insurance or assets, your recovery may be limited. However, your own homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may provide coverage through uninsured motorist or medical payments coverage. A lawyer can explore all options.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.