Moncton Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog bites are traumatic and often life-changing events. In the aftermath of an attack, victims may struggle with physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial stress. If you or someone you love has suffered a dog bite injury in Moncton, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights. Under New Brunswick law, victims are entitled to pursue compensation for their losses. Working with a skilled dog bite lawyer or personal injury lawyer at NOVA Injury Law ensures you get the representation and support you need to recover both physically and financially.

Owner Responsibility and Vicious Propensity

In New Brunswick, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their pets—especially if they knew or should have known that the dog had a history of aggression. This concept, known as vicious propensity, plays a central role in establishing owner liability. 

Evidence such as:

• Prior complaints
• Previous attacks or aggressive behavior
• Formal designation as a dangerous dog
• History of running loose or disobeying commands

…can be used to hold an owner accountable.

Courts may apply the “one bite rule,” meaning an owner might not be liable for a first bite unless there was evidence they knew the dog was dangerous. However, in practice, New Brunswick often leans toward strict liability in serious cases, especially when public safety is at stake.

Animal Control and Legal Implications

When a dog attacks someone, animal control in Moncton plays a key role in the investigation. 

Animal control officers may:

• Take statements from witnesses
• Issue citations or fines to the owner
• Order quarantine or removal of the animal
• Classify the dog as “dangerous” under municipal bylaws

These reports serve as official documentation that strengthens your legal claim. If the dog has a known history, those records can establish negligence and increase your chances of recovering compensation.

Pursuing a Dog Bite Injury Claim

To pursue a dog bite claim in Moncton, the first step is to speak with a qualified lawyer who can evaluate your case. From there, your legal team will gather evidence, document your injuries, and file the appropriate injury claim.

Victims may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (e.g., hospital visits, surgery, medications)
• Lost wages if you’re unable to work
• Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress
• Ongoing costs related to rehabilitation or therapy

If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may advise you to proceed with a lawsuit in court.

Settlements vs. Lawsuits

Most dog bite cases resolve through settlements with the dog owner’s insurance company. Settlements can offer a quicker resolution and avoid the uncertainty of litigation. However, some cases—especially those involving severe injuries or disputed liability—require litigation.

A skilled legal team will help you:

• Determine the value of your claim
• Negotiate a fair settlement
• Litigate the case if negotiations fail
• Protect your rights throughout the legal process

Establishing Fault and Proving Negligence

In any dog bite case, identifying the at fault party is essential. This is typically the dog’s owner, but may include other parties (as outlined below).

To win your claim, you must prove liability. This involves showing:

• The dog owner failed to control or restrain their animal
• The dog had a known vicious propensity or dangerous history
• The attack caused your injuries and damages

Evidence of negligence, such as a failure to leash the dog or prior warnings ignored by the owner, can make or break your case. A lawyer will assist in collecting and organizing this proof.

Medical and Psychological Impact of Dog Bites

Serious Physical Injuries

Dog bite injuries can be far more serious than a surface wound. 

Common physical consequences include:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections, including rabies and tetanus
• Nerve damage or crush injuries
• Disfigurement or permanent scarring
• Injuries requiring surgery or long-term medical care

Prompt medical attention is crucial not only for your health but also to document your injuries for your claim.

Emotional Trauma

Beyond the physical injuries, victims—especially children—often suffer from emotional trauma. 

This can include:

• Anxiety around animals
• Sleep disturbances or nightmares
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social withdrawal and depression

Your claim may include non-economic damages to reflect the psychological impact of the attack.

Dog Bites Involving Children

When the victim is a child, the case becomes even more sensitive. Children are especially vulnerable to serious injuries and may be more deeply affected by the emotional aftermath of an attack.

Courts in New Brunswick often award increased damages in child cases due to:

• The potential for long-term psychological harm
• The visible nature of scars or injuries
• The impact on developmental milestones and social engagement
• Parents may file on behalf of their children and should seek legal advice promptly to protect their rights.

Involvement of Third Parties

While the dog owner is often the primary defendant, other parties may be partially or fully responsible in some cases. 

These include:

• Landlords who permitted a known dangerous dog on their property
• Kennels or groomers who failed to control the dog in their care
• Property owners of public or commercial spaces where the attack occurred
• Police in cases involving police dogs or improperly trained service animals

Each of these scenarios involves unique legal standards. An experienced Moncton dog bite attorney can determine whether third-party liability exists in your case.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Many dog bite claims are paid out by the dog owner’s insurance company, often under homeowner’s or renter’s coverage. 

However, insurers may try to:

• Deny responsibility
• Undervalue the claim
• Suggest contributory fault
• Pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement

A lawyer can handle all communication and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to maximize your compensation.

Choosing the Right Legal Support

Not every law firm is equipped to handle dog bite cases. 

Look for a law firm with:

• Experience in personal injury and dog bite law
• A strong local reputation in Moncton and New Brunswick
• Transparent fee structures (e.g., contingency fees)
• A willingness to go to court if needed

The right legal team ensures that your rights are protected and that your case is handled with professionalism and care. The team of lawyers at NOVA Injury Law are equipped to handle cases of Dog Bites in Moncton.

Free Consultation with Moncton Dog Bite Lawyers

If you’ve been injured by a dog, don’t wait. You may face time limits for reporting the incident or filing a legal claim. A free consultation with our Moncton dog bite lawyers allows you to understand your legal position without any financial obligation.

Our firm offers a free case evaluation to:

• Review the facts of your case
• Determine if you have a claim
• Estimate the value of your injuries
• Discuss next steps for pursuing compensation

Contact Our Moncton Dog Bite Lawyers Today

Dog bite cases require swift action, compassionate support, and aggressive legal representation. At NOVA Injury Law, the Moncton Dog Bite Lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you need to recover. Whether your case involves minor injuries or lifelong consequences, we’ll guide you every step of the way—from initial consultation to final settlement or court verdict. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the trusted legal support you deserve at info@novainjurylaw.com.