Dog bites are scary, and the physical damage caused by a dog, especially a large breed, can lead to serious health complications, scarring, and even permanent disability or disfigurement. Fortunately, you’re not without recourse: New Hampshire has strict liability laws regarding dog and other domestic animal bites. This means that an owner is liable for any harm their animal causes to a person or pet.
Even with these laws in place, however, many dog bite victims quickly realize that what they thought was a straightforward claim for damages is instead a hotly contested, emotional legal matter. Working with a New Hampshire dog bite lawyer who understands the unique complications often present in dog bite cases is usually your best chance at full financial recovery.
Stay calm, get to safety, and perform first aid
Try to stay calm and focus on getting to safety. Don’t try to catch the dog or protect a pet, as doing so could result in further harm. Once you’re away from the dog and safe, clean the wound with mild soap and warm water, using a clean cloth.
If it’s a superficial wound (one that has not penetrated the dermis to the muscle, or one that is not a deep puncture wound), apply antibiotic ointment and head to your doctor or urgent care center to get evaluated. Like many other animal bites, dog bites have the potential to cause serious diseases; prompt medical attention can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Call 911 for bad dog bites or mauling
If you are bleeding, if there is a deep puncture wound, or if you have multiple bites, call 911 for help. Professional medical attention can give you the best chance of recovery, including administering antibiotics at the first signs of infection. The police may also arrive and be able to catch the dog or help identify the owner. This is important, as you need to know if the animal is up to date on its rabies vaccination.
You may be advised to get a rabies shot and a tetanus shot anyway; when administered immediately, a rabies vaccination can save your life.
People with weakened immune systems should always seek immediate medical care, regardless of how mild the bite appears, as they are at a higher risk of complications from the bacteria in the dog’s mouth.
Determine who the owner of the dog is
You’ll need the owner’s information so you can give the animal’s medical records, including vaccinations, to your doctor. And, since the owner is the one responsible for compensating victims of their dog’s attack, it helps to know who to follow up with.
Ideally, you can file a claim with the owner’s homeowners or renter’s insurance policy and receive payment for all the medical bills and other expenses you incurred due to the attack. However, many dog owners tend to blame the victim, not their pet, so don’t be surprised if the owner balks at treating you fairly.
Report the dog attack to animal control and the police
Any dog bite or scratch that breaks the skin must be reported to the local Animal Control Officer or Police Department within 24 hours. Don’t be surprised if the dog’s owner tries to talk you out of reporting the attack. Stand firm, and follow the law.
The police report should have all the information your New Hampshire dog bite attorney needs to begin a case if the owner or their insurance company tries to dispute your claim. At this point, your best course of action is to consult with a lawyer.
Hire a personal injury lawyer to help you pursue your claim
You have the right to compensation for all your medical care, including surgery, a rabies vaccination, and any psychological treatment you need. Many dog bite victims develop a severe phobia of dogs, anxiety, and PTSD, especially if the attack is severe. Nerve damage at the bite site and torn muscles that are difficult to suture can lead to a limited range of motion. The combination of these factors can affect your quality of life and keep you from doing things you used to love.
An attorney can file a suit for damages to cover all your out-of-pocket expenses, including surgery and physical therapy, as well as consideration for your pain and suffering and emotional trauma. Your lawyer also acts as a liaison between you and the animal’s owner, preventing harassment and victim-blaming.
Protect your health and legal rights after a dog bite
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, your first priority should be getting medical attention and reducing the risk of infection. But once you’re safe, it’s important to understand that New Hampshire law gives you the right to seek compensation from the dog’s owner. A New Hampshire dog bite attorney can help you recover for medical bills, emotional trauma, lost quality of life, and more.
Bitten by a dog in New Hampshire? Connect with Shaheen & Gordon by calling (800) 451-1002 or contact us online for a free consultation to learn your legal options and next steps.
