Best Animal & Dog Injury Lawyers in New Hampshire

About Animal & Dog Injury Law in New Hampshire, United States

Animal and dog injury law in New Hampshire governs what happens when a person is harmed by an animal, most commonly by a dog bite or attack. These cases typically consider who is at fault, who is responsible for paying for injuries or damages, and what rights the victim has. New Hampshire has specific statutes and case law addressing both the responsibilities of pet owners and the rights of those who have been injured. The focus is on ensuring victims are compensated for their physical injuries, emotional suffering, and financial losses, while also protecting the interests and rights of animal owners.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where you may need the assistance of a lawyer if you have experienced or are accused of an animal or dog injury incident:

• If you or your child have been bitten or attacked by a dog or another animal
• If your pet has caused injury to a person or damaged property
• If an insurance company offers a settlement that does not cover your expenses
• If the circumstances of the injury are disputed or unclear
• If you have questions about the responsibilities of pet ownership under New Hampshire law
• When medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering need to be claimed
• If you are facing legal action for your animal’s behavior

A lawyer can help investigate your case, ensure your rights are protected, interpret the applicable laws, negotiate with insurers, and if necessary, represent you in court.

Local Laws Overview

New Hampshire has specific laws regarding animal and dog injuries. Some of the key aspects include:

• Strict Liability: Dog owners in New Hampshire are generally strictly liable for injuries or property damage caused by their dogs. This means that a dog owner can be held responsible even if the dog has never shown aggression before or if the owner was not negligent.
• Statute of Limitations: There is a legal time limit for filing a claim after an animal or dog injury. In New Hampshire, that limit is typically three years from the date of the incident.
• Comparative Negligence: If the injured person was partially at fault for the incident (for example, by provoking the animal), their compensation may be reduced proportionally.
• Potential Defenses: Defenses for dog owners may include proving the injured person trespassed, intentionally provoked the dog, or was committing a crime at the time of the injury.
• Dangerous Dog Statutes: Local and state ordinances may require owners to control or restrain dogs deemed dangerous, and failure to comply can result in fines or the removal of the animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a dog bite or animal attack?

Seek medical treatment right away for any injuries. Take photographs of wounds and the location, get the contact information of the animal’s owner and any witnesses, and report the incident to your local animal control agency or police department.

Is the dog owner always responsible for injuries caused by their pet?

Most of the time, yes. Under New Hampshire’s strict liability law, the owner is typically responsible, unless a valid legal defense exists, such as provocation or trespassing.

Can I sue if a dog injured my pet?

Yes. In New Hampshire, you may be able to seek compensation for veterinary bills or the loss of your pet if another person’s animal attacked or injured your animal.

What kind of damages can I recover in a dog bite case?

Victims can usually recover for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and sometimes property damage. In rare cases, punitive damages may also apply.

What happens if the dog owner does not have insurance?

You can still pursue a claim personally against the owner. A lawyer can guide you on whether the owner has other assets or if other coverage may apply.

What is the time limit for filing a dog bite lawsuit in New Hampshire?

You have three years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit for a dog or animal injury in New Hampshire courts.

Are there any exceptions to the strict liability rule?

Yes. Common exceptions include cases where the injured person was trespassing, provoking the animal, or committing a crime at the time of the incident.

If I am bitten by a dog at a friend's house, can I still file a claim?

Yes. These cases commonly involve homeowner’s insurance, and filing a claim does not necessarily mean suing your friend directly.

Does it matter if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

No. Unlike some other states, New Hampshire does not require proof of a prior bite or aggressive behavior. The owner can be held liable even if this was the first incident.

Can children recover damages for dog bite injuries?

Yes. Children are frequently victims in dog bite cases and have the same legal rights to be compensated for injuries, pain and suffering, and medical bills.

Additional Resources

If you need further help or information related to animal and dog injury law in New Hampshire, the following resources can be valuable:

• New Hampshire Judicial Branch - Information on civil legal actions and small claims
• New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food - Animal control and welfare resources
• Local city or town animal control officers
• New Hampshire State Bar Association - Referral services to help find a qualified lawyer
• Your local police department or public health office for incident reporting
• Humane Society offices for education on responsible pet ownership

Next Steps

If you have suffered an animal or dog injury, or if your pet has caused injury, you should take the following steps:

• Get immediate medical attention if needed
• Gather all available evidence - photos, witness statements, records
• Report the incident to local authorities such as animal control or police
• Contact your insurance company if applicable
• Reach out to a lawyer experienced in animal and dog injury claims in New Hampshire

Hiring an attorney can help you understand your legal options, ensure your rights are protected, and improve your chances of a fair financial recovery. Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations and only collect fees if you win your case.