Under the Dog Bite statute, N.J.S.A. 4:19-16, a victim of a dog bite does not need to show the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s vicious propensities.  The statute imposes strict liability upon an owner whose dog bites another.

Under the recent holding of DeVivo v. Anderson, 410 N.J. Super. 175 (App. Div.2009), for the first time, the Court held that the breaking of the victim’s skin is not required in order to recover under the statute.  Evidence of bruising and swelling is sufficient to recover under the statute.

If you have any questions regarding Dog Bite Law, or any other personal injury, call Mark & Galusha, attorneys who specialize in personal injury law.  Contact us at the "contact us" page, or by calling 908-626-1001 or 973-440-2311.