Yes, you can sue for a dog bite in many cases, especially if you suffered injuries that required medical treatment or resulted in financial losses. Dog bite victims in New Hampshire and Maine have legal options to pursue compensation under dog bite laws, but the specific rules vary by state.
In general, when a dog causes injury, the dog’s owner may be held legally responsible. The bite rule in your state, and whether your case falls under strict liability law, will determine if you have grounds to file a dog bite lawsuit. A New Hampshire dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights and what compensation may be available in your case.
What should I do after a dog bite attack?
If a dog has bitten you, your first priority should be your health and safety. Take these immediate steps:
- Get medical treatment right away. Dog bite injuries can lead to infections or serious complications, so don’t delay seeing a doctor.
- Report the dog bite incident to law enforcement or animal control. This creates a record of the attack, which could help your legal claim.
- Gather evidence if possible. This includes photos of your injuries, witness contact information, details of the attack, and information about the dog and its owner.
Once you’ve addressed your immediate medical needs, it might be time to consider legal action, especially if the bite caused you pain and suffering.
What types of damages can dog bite victims recover?
Dog bite victims can seek compensation for various damages, depending on the severity of the injuries and the impact of the incident on their lives. Common damages in dog bite cases include:
- Medical bills and ongoing medical treatment costs
- Lost income due to time off work or reduced earning capacity
- Physical pain and emotional distress
- Scarring, disfigurement, or permanent disability
- Property damage (e.g., if a pet or personal item was harmed)
Some victims may also be eligible for compensation for pain and suffering, which covers the physical and emotional toll of the bite. Whether you can recover these damages depends on the specifics of your case.
One recent case involved a pediatrician who suffered serious injuries from a police K-9 bite. Our firm helped recover a $325,000 settlement to address his medical costs, pain, and long-term recovery needs. Keep in mind that prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome: Each case is unique, and case results are not intended to imply that equivalent results will be achieved in any given case.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit?
Each state sets a legal deadline, known as a statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims, including dog bite cases.
In New Hampshire, you typically have three years from the date of a dog bite to file a lawsuit. In Maine, the deadline is generally six years, but the specific facts of your case may affect how the law applies. Missing these deadlines could prevent you from pursuing compensation, so it’s important to act right away.
Are dog owners always liable under strict liability law?
In many states, including New Hampshire, strict liability laws apply to dog bite cases. This means a dog’s owner can be held responsible even if the dog had never shown aggressive behavior before. Certain defenses, like trespassing or provocation, may affect liability.
Other states follow a “one-bite rule,” which requires proving that the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. Because liability depends on the specifics of your case and your state’s dog bite laws, speaking with a personal injury lawyer is the best way to understand your rights.
Do I need a personal injury lawyer for a dog bite lawsuit?
You’re not legally required to have a lawyer, but pursuing compensation after a dog bite can be complicated. Insurance companies may offer low settlements or deny valid claims, and proving liability often requires evidence, medical records, and strong negotiation skills.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you:
- Assess your claim’s value
- Navigate the legal process
- Negotiate with the dog owner’s insurer
- Represent you in court if needed
At Shaheen & Gordon, our team works with dog bite victims throughout New England and Hawaii. We understand how a serious bite can affect your life and your finances, and we’re here to help you take the next step.
Request a dog bite case evaluation
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, emotional distress, lost income, and pain. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions and guide you through the legal action process.
Request a case evaluation today by calling (800) 451-1002 or contacting us online. We serve dog bite victims across New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Hawaii, and offer virtual appointments when needed.
