ATTACKS BY DOGS

If I or a member of my family is attacked by a dog while we are visiting the owner, is anyone responsible for any injury that may result from the attack?

Yes. New Jersey has a law that makes the owners of the dog responsible for the injuries sustained by anyone who is lawfully on the owner's premises when the attack occurs?

But what if the dog never bit anyone before, and is not a vicious dog?

Viciousness is not an element under the law mentioned above. The owners will be held per se liable for the injuries inflicted by their dog.

Suppose I am sued for injuries inflicted by my dog. Does insurance cover this?

Generally, your homeowner's insurance or your renter's insurance policy will cover dog bites. You should contact your carrier immediately if you are made aware of an injury inflicted by your dog.