Dog Bite Facts

NJ Dog Bite and Attack Lawyer

Misinformation is a big problem in dog bite litigation. Myths arise and become an accepted part of the popular consciousness. Eventually, these misconceptions seep into the minds of judges and jurors, and this can influence how cases are handled.

These myths can even make dog bite attack victims less inclined to pursue justice and compensation for their injuries. As such, our New Jersey dog bite attorney offers this page to provide some important facts and statistics about dog bite attacks.

We hope this will prove helpful as you research your options.

If you live in the state of New Jersey and need an experienced dog bite lawyer, please call David J. Cowhey at 866-343-3181 or contact us online for a free consultation.

The Reality

Finding hard statistics for dog bites can be difficult. After all, many (perhaps most) of these incidents aren’t recorded, and even serious attacks are often swept under the rug for various reasons. However, there are still several things you should be aware of:

  • New Jersey is a strict liability state, meaning “one free bite” and “history of viciousness” are irrelevant here. Read our dog bite laws page for more information.
  • Millions of Americans are bitten by dogs every year
  • Many of these injuries are quite serious and require hospitalization, followed by long-term medical treatment- the CDC found that 17 percent of dog bite victims in 1994 sought medical attention
  • In 2001, the CDC found that 368,245 victims were treated in emergency rooms for wounds resulting from dog bite attacks
  • According to statistics accumulated by the advocacy organization DogBites.org, pit bulls were responsible for 59 percent of the fatal dog bite attacks recorded between 2006 and 2009
  • Most victims know the dog that attacked them
  • Children are more likely to be the victim of a dog attack than an adult

As you can see, these attacks are serious, nation-wide problems. These are not small, playful nips from a docile dog. Our clients suffer significant injuries that require intensive medical care. If you’re a New Jersey resident and you want to learn more from our dog bite attorney, please call us at 866-259-4377 or reach out to us through our online form and schedule your free consultation.

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I’ve been bitten by a dog

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Dave was awesome helping me through the nightmare world of insurance claims after my daughter was attacked by a neighbors dog. Dave is very friendly, always available and extremally knowledgeable and connected to this process. I highly recommend you call him about your case,

John L.

David Cowhey, Esq. did a great job for my daughter, who had been bit by a dog and left with a scar on her leg. He is an extremely competent and responsive attorney. The whole process was very easy and he negotiated a great settlement! We are very happy. Highly recommend his professional services!!

J S

My experience with David Cowhey was amazing, he is a very knowledgeable and helpful lawyer. I got bit by a dog and it left a very noticeable scar on my leg and David was great to have on my side. He’s very easy to work with, would definitely recommend if you’re going through the same thing!

Michaela S.