Posted in Israel F. Piedra, Personal Injury
According to the Center for Disease Control, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. Children are the most likely victims, and men are more likely to be bitten than women. Surveys have estimated that 30% of New Hampshire families own a dog.
Dog bite injuries are treated uniquely under New Hampshire law. Typically, in order to recover for a personal injury, a victim must demonstrate negligence on behalf of a defendant. In the case of an animal or dog bite injury, the defendant would be the dog’s owner. Therefore, if traditional negligence rules applied, a victim would need to show that the dog owner failed to use reasonable care in some way, and that the failure directly caused the dog to bite the victim.
In certain cases, the victim could certainly prove that the dog owner was negligent: for example, if an aggressive pit bull was unleashed in a densely-populated area, the pit bull’s owner was not exercising sufficient care.
In many other situations, however, dog bites simply occur due to “dogs being dogs” — not any kind of negligence on the part of the dog owner. But there is still a remedy.
In New Hampshire, under RSA 466:19, a plaintiff-victim may recover for dog bite injuries regardless of fault. This is a concept known as “strict liability” and means that the victim need not show negligence to recover damages. It boils down to this: if someone’s dog bites you, you likely have a right to damages.
The value of the claim depends on the extent of the damages. Permanent injuries, including scarring, may result in higher damages.
Many people don’t realize that most homeowner’s insurance policies contain coverage for dog bite claims. Therefore, if you suffer a serious dog bite injury, you might be entitled to a settlement from the dog owner’s insurance company — meaning the dog owner themselves wouldn’t personally be on the hook for damages.
If you or your child was the victim of a dog bite, contact us today for a free consultation. We typically represent personal injury clients on a contingency fee basis: no upfront cost and our fee comes from a percentage of your settlement. Click the link above for more information.
Call us today at (603) 883-0707 learn more.
Author: Israel F. Piedra
This blog is intended for informational use only. The information contained herein should not be construed as offering legal advice or a legal opinion or forming an attorney-client relationship.
New Hampshire Dog Bite FAQs
1. How Can A Lawyer Help Me After A Dog Attack?
A New Hampshire dog bite lawyer specializes in cases where individuals have been injured in dog attacks. Their primary role is to provide legal counsel, investigate the incident, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue legal action on behalf of victims. Their goal is to help you obtain compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses resulting from the dog bite.
2. What Should I Do Immediately After A Dog Bite Incident?
After a dog bite incident in New Hampshire, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
– Seek Medical Attention: Ensure that your injuries are treated promptly and thoroughly documented.
– Identify the Dog Owner: Obtain the contact information of the dog’s owner or the responsible party.
– Gather Evidence: Document the incident by taking photos of your injuries, the scene, and any visible dog-related hazards.
– Report the Incident: Report the dog bite to local authorities and seek a copy of any related reports.
– Consult a New Hampshire Dog Bite Lawyer: Reach out to a lawyer at Welts, White, & Fontaine, P.C. for guidance on your legal rights and potential compensation.
3. What Types Of Compensation Can I Seek?
With the assistance of a New Hampshire dog bite lawyer, you can seek various types of compensation, including:
– Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical bills related to your injuries, including surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation.
– Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress resulting from the dog bite incident.
– Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work while recovering.
– Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to personal property or clothing during the incident.
– Future Expenses: Compensation for anticipated future medical costs, such as scar revision surgeries or ongoing treatments.
4. Is The Dog Owner Always Liable For A Dog Bite?
In New Hampshire, dog owners are generally held liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior. However, there are exceptions if the victim was trespassing or engaged in unlawful activities on the owner’s property at the time of the incident. Consulting a lawyer is crucial for a thorough evaluation of your specific case.
5. How Can I Choose The Right Lawyer For My Case?
Choosing the right lawyer is essential for a successful outcome. Consider factors such as experience, specialization in dog bite cases, and a track record of securing favorable settlements or verdicts. It’s also important to schedule consultations to assess your comfort level and communication with the attorney. Welts, White, & Fontaine, P.C. has a team of experienced lawyers who can provide the legal guidance you need during this challenging time.
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite incident, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Our dedicated lawyers are here to protect your rights, navigate the legal process, and seek the compensation you deserve. Your well-being and recovery are our top priorities.