Many dog owners may be liable for dog bite injuries suffered by an individual after an attack. The victim usually does not have to prove negligence when it happens, either. In New Jersey, a person bit by a dog only needs to prove who owns the animal.
The person suffering injuries is also typically required to determine that the attack occurred without provocation. Other scenarios might involve an escape from a fenced-in area or leash detachment. A loose dog could run away and possibly attack a person walking down a public sidewalk or driveway. Other incidences may occur when private homeowners fail to post a warning sign for visitors. When this happens, someone lawfully entering the property could experience an unexpected injury after the pet attacks.
Pet owners in this state could also be held liable for other reasons. For example, an animal could run out of the house and into traffic; this might cause congestion and lead to higher accident risk when a driver decides to quickly brake or swerve away from the animal. According to statutes, dangerous animals usually are impounded after establishing that they have caused serious bodily injury or death. In some cases, a dog or other pet might be returned to the owner after the owner has complied with rules for having a potentially dangerous animal on the property. However, some situations may require that the pet be euthanized.
Various dangerous animal laws applies to dogs, cats or livestock other than poultry that have caused damage to a human being or other animal. Dog bite injuries are among the most common injury types. An attorney can clarify state standards regarding pet ownership responsibility.