Dog bites are more common than many people realize—and they often come with lasting consequences. For New Jersey residents, understanding what compensation might look like after a dog bite is an important step toward recovery. But while you might hear averages quoted online, the truth is there’s no universal payout. Settlements can vary depending on how severe the injury is, insurance coverage, and legal strategy.

This article breaks down what affects a dog bite settlement in New Jersey, the state’s legal framework for these claims, and what victims can realistically expect.

New Jersey Dog Bite Laws Favor Victims

New Jersey follows a strict liability standard for dog bite cases. This means the dog’s owner is typically responsible if their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never shown signs of any type of aggression before.

Key aspects of New Jersey’s dog bite law:

• Victims do not have to prove the dog owner was negligent.
• The bite must occur in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property.
• The law applies regardless of the dog’s breed or the owner’s knowledge of past behavior.

This framework often puts the burden of proof in a more favorable position for the victim, making it easier to recover damages than in states with a "one-bite" rule.

What Factors Influence a Dog Bite Settlement in NJ?

The average settlement for a dog bite in New Jersey typically ranges from $30,000 to $100,000, but payouts can go well beyond that in severe cases. A range this wide exists because every case is different. Below are the most important factors that affect compensation:

1. Severity of the Injury

• Superficial wounds may settle for less than $20,000
• Deep lacerations, broken bones, or nerve damage can push settlements over $75,000
• Permanent disfigurement or reconstructive surgery often leads to six-figure settlements

2. Medical Expenses

Settlements generally account for all medical bills: emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and future treatment if ongoing care is needed.

3. Lost Wages or Reduced Earning Capacity

If the victim missed work—or if the injury limits their ability to work in the future—this income loss becomes part of the claim.

4. Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress

Dog attacks are traumatic. Emotional recovery is often lengthy, especially in cases involving children. Compensation for these noneconomic damages can be significant.

5. Scarring and Disfigurement

Visible scarring, particularly on the face or hands, can increase a settlement substantially. In some cases, future cosmetic surgery costs are also factored in.

6. Liability and Insurance Limits

Most dog bite settlements are paid through homeowners or renters insurance. The insurance policy’s coverage limit often sets the ceiling for the payout—commonly $100,000 to $300,000.

How Insurance Affects New Jersey Dog Bite Settlements

In most cases, dog bite victims pursue compensation through an insurance claim, not a lawsuit. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average dog bite claim nationwide in 2023 was about $58,500, but New Jersey tends to report slightly higher than average due to population density and legal precedent favoring strict liability.

Homeowner insurance policies typically cover:

• Medical expenses
• Legal fees (if a lawsuit is filed)
• Pain and suffering damages up to the policy’s limits

However, if the dog owner has no insurance—or their policy excludes certain breeds—the injured party may need to sue the owner personally, which introduces questions of collectability and additional legal complexity.

New Jersey Dog Bite Settlements Involving Children

Children account for more than half of all dog bite victims, and settlements in these cases are often higher due to:

• Increased risk of permanent scarring
• Greater likelihood of emotional trauma
• Potential impact on schooling and development

Courts and insurers are especially mindful of the long-term effects of a traumatic injury on a child. In many cases, settlements must be court-approved and placed in trust until the child reaches adulthood.

When Do Dog Bite Cases Go to Court?

Most dog bite cases in New Jersey are settled out of court, often during the insurance negotiation process. However, a case might go to trial if:

• The insurer disputes liability
• The settlement offer is too low
• There is a disagreement about the extent of damages

A skilled attorney can present medical records, expert evaluations, and psychological assessments to support a higher settlement value or win a favorable verdict in court.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in New Jersey

If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact the value of your claim:

• Seek medical attention right away, even if the injury appears minor
• Report the incident to your local animal control or police department
• Document injuries with photos and save medical records
• Get witness contact information if the bite occurred in public
• Consult a personal injury attorney to evaluate your options and handle communications with the insurer

Conclusion

The average dog bite settlement in New Jersey depends on many variables—injury severity, insurance limits, and legal strategy all play a role. While strict liability laws generally support victims’ claims, the final payout is highly case-specific. By seeking timely medical treatment, preserving evidence, and working with an experienced attorney, dog bite victims can maximize their chances of a fair settlement and meaningful recovery.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating New Jersey personal injury claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced dog bite lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.