Many states and local jurisdictions ban certain dog breeds since they are responsible for most of the attacks, maimings, and deaths of adults and children. However, you don’t need to own a pitbull or Rottweiler to be sued when your dog bites someone. If your dog has bitten someone, you should contact an attorney in case you are sued.
Holding Owners Liable
The law in New Jersey allows someone who has been bitten by a dog on public property or when legally present on private property to hold its owner liable. Even if a dog has never known to be vicious, the owner can still be held liable for any damages caused by the bite. If your dog has bitten someone, you should hire an attorney if faced with a dog bite lawsuit in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Dog Bite Defense
It can be difficult to defend an owner when their dog has bitten someone. Fortunately, there are some defenses that can be used in a dog bite lawsuit. One of the defenses which can be used is to convince a judge and jury that the plaintiff didn’t prove their case. The plaintiff must show it is “more likely than not” that your dog bit them.
The plaintiff also needs to show:
1. The owner had a duty to control the dog’s behavior in a reasonable manner.
2. The owner breached their duty and didn’t control their dog.
3. Their failure to control their dog, leading to the plaintiff being bitten.
If you need an attorney to help defend you if your dog has bitten someone, contact Schatz & Steinberg, P.C.
If you’re facing a dog bite lawsuit, it is important to hire an experienced attorney who can create a defense that will help reduce the amount the plaintiff will receive, or to win the lawsuit against you.
