Dogs can be unpredictable, and even some whose owners believe them to be docile can act out of character and show unexpected aggression. In most cases of animal bites in New Jersey, unrestrained dogs in public areas and their owners are the culprits. An unusual case occurred in another state on a recent Wednesday when a 3-year-old child suffered a dog bite in the face at a restaurant.
Reportedly, the incident happened at a pizza restaurant that is dog-friendly. Compliant with the laws of that state, the restaurant has a doggie dining permit for facilities where dogs are allowed on the outside terrace. The family reported that, as they left the restaurant their young child noticed the dog and asked its owner whether he could pet the dog. However, the dog apparently bit the child in the face, causing serious injuries.
The family said the boy was kept in the emergency room for the remainder of the day while he received medical treatment. The restaurant owner said the dog is a regular visitor to the restaurant and has never shown any aggression. Nevertheless, due to potential liability, the owner said he was considering to end access to dogs at his facility.
This restaurant owner may be wise to do that. Animals are unpredictable, and if the injured boy’s family decides to seek recovery through the justice system, they can name both the dog owner and the restaurant owner as defendants in a premises liability and personal injury lawsuit. Victims of animal bites in New Jersey have similar rights. To learn about the steps to take to file such a claim, the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney is available.
Source: actionnewsjax.com, “Dog bites 3-year-old at Neptune Beach restaurant“, Christy Turner, July 24, 2017