If a dog attacked you in Bergen County, you may be entitled to compensation under NJ’s strict liability statute (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16). A Dog Bite Lawyer Bergen County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you pursue damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call 24/7.
New Jersey Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen 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 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 — only that the dog bit you and you were lawfully on the property. The statute applies to bites occurring on public property or while you are lawfully on private property. Exceptions exist for trespassers and persons provoking the animal. The law covers medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related damages. An animal attack injury claim lawyer Bergen County can evaluate your case under this statute.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 (Dog Bite Statute) — Official New Jersey Legislature
- Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage — Official Court Website
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Bergen County
In Bergen County, dog bite cases are filed in the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage Law Division. The court requires prompt action due to the two-year statute of limitations. Medical documentation is critical — seek treatment immediately and keep all records. A dog owner liability lawyer Bergen County can help you handle the process.
- Seek Medical Attention: Go to an emergency room or urgent care immediately. Dog bites can cause serious infections and hidden tissue damage.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog. Get contact information from the owner and any witnesses.
- Report the Bite: File a report with the Bergen County Animal Control or local police department. This creates an official record.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep all medical bills, receipts for medication, and records of lost work time. Save any torn clothing or damaged property.
- Contact a Lawyer: Call a Dog Bite Lawyer Bergen County before speaking to any insurance adjuster. Your attorney will handle all communications.
- File Your Claim: Your lawyer will file a personal injury lawsuit in the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage within the two-year statute of limitations.
In Bergen County, a dog bite claim under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 can result in compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
| Offense | Classification | Compensation Range | Statute of Limitations | Defenses | Additional Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Bite Injury | Strict Liability Tort | Medical bills + lost wages + pain and suffering (no cap in NJ) | 2 years from date of injury | Trespassing; Provocation; Assumption of Risk | Homeowner’s insurance typically covers claims |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Dog Bite Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating our commitment to shaping the law. We serve clients across NJ, VA, MD, NY, and DC.
Our Track Record
While specific Bergen County dog bite case results are not available for publication, firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
We Serve Bergen County Clients
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Bergen County courts. We are accessible via I-80, NJ Turnpike, Route 17, Route 4, and Route 46. We serve all communities in Bergen County including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
Looking for a Dog Bite Lawyer Bergen County near you? We are here to help.
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 Bergen County
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite in Bergen County?
Yes. A Dog Bite Lawyer Bergen County ensures you meet the two-year statute of limitations and negotiate with insurance companies for full compensation.
What damages can I recover for a dog bite in NJ?
You can recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. NJ has no cap on personal injury damages, so your compensation depends on injury severity.
Is NJ a strict liability state for dog bites?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Bergen County?
Two years from the date of the injury. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to sue. Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer Bergen County immediately.
What if the dog owner has no insurance?
It depends. Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance typically covers dog bites. If the owner has no insurance, you may need to pursue the owner’s personal assets or your own underinsured motorist coverage.
Can I sue if the dog bite happened on public property?
Yes. NJ’s strict liability statute applies to bites occurring on public property or while you are lawfully on private property. Trespassers are generally not covered.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.