Dog Bite Attorney in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Injured By A Dog Bite? We Can Help You Get Fair Compensation.
At Elmore Law Office, we understand the life-altering impact a dog bite injury can have on victims and their families. Dog attacks often result in severe physical and emotional trauma, with adults suffering serious ligament and tendon damage as they attempt to defend themselves, sometimes requiring surgery to regain motor function.
Children who are less able to protect themselves and are closer to the ground frequently sustain devastating facial injuries that may necessitate ongoing medical care or plastic surgery to address scarring. These injuries not only demand extensive medical treatment but can also leave lasting emotional and financial burdens.
Our Portsmouth dog bite attorney has over two decades of experience helping injury victims across New Hampshire and Massachusetts secure the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. We understand that every dog bite case is unique, and we approach each claim with personalized care and a deep commitment to achieving justice. By thoroughly investigating the circumstances of the attack, assessing the full extent of your injuries, and identifying the best legal strategy, we fight to ensure you receive compensation for your current and future needs.
Contact us today to discuss your case during a free consultation so you can confidently move forward.
Never Underestimate the Severity of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries are often more serious than they initially appear. What may seem like a minor wound can lead to significant medical, emotional, and financial challenges. It’s crucial to recognize the potential severity of these injuries to ensure proper treatment and legal action are taken.
- Physical Complications
Dog bites frequently result in deep puncture wounds, torn ligaments, and muscle damage, which may require surgery to repair. Infections such as cellulitis or even life-threatening conditions like sepsis can develop if the wounds are not treated promptly. In severe cases, nerve damage or permanent scarring may significantly impact the victim’s quality of life.
- Long-Term Medical Needs
For children, dog bites to the face or neck are particularly devastating, often requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries over time to minimize scarring. Adults may undergo extensive rehabilitation to regain mobility or strength after a tendon or nerve damage, leading to prolonged recovery and mounting medical expenses.
- Emotional Trauma
The psychological impact of a dog bite is just as significant as the physical injuries. Victims, especially children, may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a lifelong fear of dogs. Emotional scars often require therapy or counseling to address.
- Hidden Costs
The financial implications of a dog bite injury can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and future care costs add up quickly, creating a significant burden for victims and their families. Additionally, underestimating the severity of an injury may result in settling for insufficient compensation, leaving victims without the resources they need for ongoing treatment.
At Elmore Law Office, we understand dog bite injuries’ complexities and lasting impact. Our experienced attorney is here to fight for your right to full compensation, ensuring all your current and future needs are accounted for. From medical expenses to emotional suffering, we take a comprehensive approach to secure the resources you need to recover. Don’t underestimate the severity of your injuries—contact our Portsmouth dog bite lawyer today for a free consultation. Let us guide you through the process with the care and experience contributing to our proven track record of success.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire laws allow victims to seek compensation for their injuries. However, determining liability for dog bite injuries involves examining the circumstances of the incident and the parties responsible for the dog.
Here are the potential parties who may be held liable in a dog bite case:
- Dog Owners
Under New Hampshire’s strict liability laws, dog owners are generally held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression.
This applies to situations where:
- The victim was lawfully on the property where the attack occurred, including a guest, delivery worker, or someone performing a job.
- The victim was in a public place when the attack happened.
Even if the dog owner was unaware of their dog’s dangerous tendencies, they could still be held liable for injuries resulting from a bite or attack.
- Caretakers or Keepers
If someone other than the owner was responsible for the dog at the time of the attack—such as a dog walker, pet sitter, or boarding facility—they might share liability, especially if they negligently handled or restrained the dog.
- Property Owners
In some cases, property owners who allow dogs on their premises may also be held liable if they fail to take reasonable precautions to protect others. For instance, if a landlord permits a tenant to keep a known aggressive dog and fails to warn visitors or take action to prevent harm, they could bear some responsibility.
- Parents or Guardians of Minor Owners
If the dog’s owner is a minor, the parents or guardians may be held liable for the dog’s actions, especially if they failed to supervise the child adequately or knew about the dog’s aggressive tendencies.
While New Hampshire follows strict liability for dog bites, there are exceptions to consider, such as:
- Trespassing: The dog owner’s liability may be limited if the victim was trespassing on private property during the attack.
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog by teasing or harming it, this could reduce or eliminate the owner’s liability.
At Elmore Law Office, we understand a dog bite injury’s physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Our experienced attorneys will investigate your case thoroughly, identify all liable parties, and build a strong claim to secure the compensation you deserve. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we protect your rights and ensure you receive justice. Contact our experienced dog bite attorneys in Portsmouth today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.
Homeowners’ Insurance Usually Covers Dog Bite Injuries in New Hampshire
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in New Hampshire, you might feel uncomfortable taking legal action, especially if the dog’s owner is a friend, neighbor, or family member. It’s a common concern—no one wants to create tension or financial hardship for someone they know. However, it’s important to understand that in most cases, the compensation for dog bite injuries comes from the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy, not their personal assets.
Homeowners’ and renters’ insurance typically includes liability coverage for incidents like dog bites, even if the attack occurred off the owner’s property. This means the insurance company—not the dog owner directly—pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Filing a claim ensures that your injuries and recovery are adequately addressed without financially impacting the person you know and care about.
Why Filing a New Hampshire Dog Bite Injury Claim is Important
Dog bites can lead to serious injuries requiring costly medical treatment, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, long-term care. Without filing a claim, you could be left covering these expenses alone, creating a significant financial burden. By utilizing the owner’s insurance policy, you can access the resources you need to recover fully while maintaining your relationship with the dog’s owner.
At Elmore Law Office, we understand the sensitive nature of these cases. Our Portsmouth dog bite attorney works to handle your claim with professionalism and care, ensuring the process is as stress-free as possible for everyone involved. We will negotiate directly with the insurance company to secure fair compensation for your injuries, covering everything from medical bills to emotional trauma.
If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury, don’t hesitate to seek the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case, understand your rights, and explore your options without placing undue strain on your personal relationships. Let us help you navigate this challenging situation with skill and compassion.
At Elmore Law Office, our Portsmouth Personal Injury Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Practice Areas:
Contact Our Skilled Dog Bite Attorney in Portsmouth, New Hampshire Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury, Elmore Law Office is here to help. Contact our Portsmouth office today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you need. With our experienced attorney, you can move forward confidently, knowing your case is in capable hands.
At Elmore Law Office, we’re more than just attorneys—we’re your dedicated advocates. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if needed, we handle every aspect of your case with compassion and fierce determination. Our goal is to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on healing. Reach out to us today, and let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation, call (603) 929-1117 or fill out the contact form on this website.