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Dog Bite Injuries
Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer
Many states across the U.S. hold dog owners liable for injuries caused by their pets, but some states have more favorable laws for victims of dog attacks than others. In most states, victims must prove negligence to receive compensation. However, states with strict liability laws impose liability on dog owners regardless of whether the owner knew their dog was dangerous or not.
New Hampshire, for example, is one of the states that has adopted a strict liability approach. This means that if a dog causes injury to someone, the owner is held legally responsible, even if the dog had never shown signs of aggression before. In addition to covering medical expenses, victims may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related costs. This approach provides stronger protection for victims and ensures they have a clear legal path to recovery. In contrast, other states may follow a “one-bite rule,” which limits a dog owner’s liability unless the dog had previously shown aggressive behavior.
Contact our office today at 877-4-Maxx Law or 877-462-9952 if you or a child in your family has suffered a serious dog bite injury. Maxx Compensation is an experienced dog bite law firm and is happy to provide a free dog bite injury consultation.
Who is liable for a dog bite?
In many states, strict liability laws hold dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their dogs, and some states extend these laws to individuals who care for dogs, even if they aren’t the owner. For example, in New Hampshire, RSA 466:19 imposes strict liability on both dog owners and dog “keepers”—individuals such as dog walkers or sitters responsible for the animal at the time of an incident. This means that if someone is injured by a dog, they can seek compensation for physical injuries, regardless of whether the dog has previously shown signs of aggression.
Importantly, if a minor is the dog’s owner or keeper, the parent or guardian may be held legally liable in case of an attack. These laws are designed to ensure victims can recover damages such as medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages, offering robust protection across many states.
Damages in a dog bite case
In many states, dog bite laws allow victims to recover damages from a dog owner or keeper if they are injured due to a dog attack. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, hospital fees, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Depending on the severity of the incident, some states impose fines or require the dog to be taken into custody. Fines for dog attacks can range from $25 to $400 or higher, depending on the specific laws of the state and the circumstances of the attack.
Additionally, strict liability laws in many states protect not only direct victims of dog bites but also those indirectly harmed by a dog’s actions. This includes cases where a dog causes property damage, injures other animals, or indirectly causes physical harm. For example, in the case of Bohan v. Ritzo, a dog owner was held liable for injuries sustained by a cyclist who crashed after being chased by the dog.
Child Safety: Children at more at risk
Children are at a significantly higher risk of severe injuries from dog bites due to several factors. They are often unable to recognize the warning signs of an aggressive dog and, because of their smaller size, dogs may perceive them as less of a threat. Additionally, children’s heads, faces, and necks are closer to a dog’s mouth, making these vulnerable areas more likely to be injured in an attack.
This heightened vulnerability is one reason many states, including those with strict liability dog bite laws, hold dog owners or keepers heavily accountable in cases involving attacks on children. If a child is bitten, it’s critical to ensure that the dog has up-to-date vaccinations, especially for rabies, as this can affect treatment and recovery. Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation.
How do you win a dog bite case?
Dog bite laws in many states, particularly those with strict liability statutes, are designed to protect victims by holding dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets. These laws apply immediately after a dog bite or attack occurs, making it easier for victims to pursue compensation. In many states, dog owners may avoid liability if the victim was committing an unlawful act, such as trespassing, at the time of the attack. In these cases, the dog’s actions are often seen as defensive, potentially freeing the owner from liability.
However, even in states with these defenses available, it’s crucial to work with an experienced dog bite attorney who understands the nuances of personal injury law and can aggressively pursue your case. This ensures that you or your loved ones receive the compensation necessary for medical treatment, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects of the injury.
Contact our office today at 877-4-Maxx Law or 877-462-9952 if you or a child in your family has suffered a serious dog bite injury. Maxx Compensation is an experienced dog bite law firm and we are happy to provide a free dog bite injury consultation.
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