Albuquerque Dog Bite Lawyer

If you or a loved one have suffered a dog bite or attack, it is crucial to seek trusted legal representation. Our team of dedicated Albuquerque dog bite lawyers is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights. Arrange a free consultation by calling (505) 207-4401 or sending us a message online.

Why Choose Our Albuquerque Dog Bite Lawyer?

• We understand the unique complexities associated with dog bite cases and have the knowledge and skills to build a strong legal strategy tailored to your situation.
• Our Albuquerque dog bite lawyers are skilled negotiators who will diligently work to achieve a fair settlement outside of court whenever possible.
• We understand the toll a dog bite can have on your life. We will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel supported and empowered.

How an Albuquerque Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

An Albuquerque dog bite lawyer can provide valuable assistance in several ways:

Legal Advice

A dog bite lawyer has in-depth knowledge of state laws relevant to dog bite cases and can provide accurate legal advice regarding your rights and options. They can help you understand the dog owner’s liability, potential defenses, and the legal steps involved in pursuing a claim or lawsuit.

Investigation

Building a solid case requires a thorough investigation. A dog bite lawyer will gather evidence to support your claim, such as medical records, witness statements, photographs of the injuries, and any available video footage. They will also investigate the history and behavior of the dog involved, looking for any prior incidents or aggressive tendencies that may strengthen your case.

Establishing Liability

Determining liability in a dog bite case can be complex. A lawyer will assess the circumstances of the incident and gather evidence to establish the liability of the dog owner or any other responsible parties.

Maximizing Compensation

A dog bite lawyer will fight to maximize your compensation. They will evaluate the full extent of your injuries and work with medical professionals and other experts to assess your current and future needs in order to calculate the appropriate compensation you deserve. Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies to seek a fair settlement that covers all your losses.

Trial Experience

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, a dog bite lawyer will use their skills to prepare and present your case in court effectively.

Emotional Support

An Albuquerque dog bite lawyer understands the challenges you may be facing and can provide compassionate support throughout the legal process.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can vary in severity, ranging from minor wounds to more catastrophic and life-threatening trauma. Some common dog bite injuries include:

• Puncture Wounds: Dogs have sharp teeth, and their bites can often result in puncture wounds. These injuries can be deep and may require medical attention to clean the wound, assess the risk of infection, and administer appropriate treatments such as stitches or sutures.
• Lacerations: Lacerations or deep cuts can cause significant bleeding and tissue damage. In some cases, they can require surgical repair depending on the severity.
• Infections: Dog bites have a high risk of infection due to the presence of bacteria in a dog’s mouth. Common infections resulting from dog bites include cellulitis, abscesses, and septicemia.
• Nerve Damage: Severe dog bites can cause nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation, weakness, or paralysis in the affected area. Nerve injuries may require specialized medical care and long-term rehabilitation to regain function and reduce disability.
• Fractures and Bone Injuries: The force of a dog bite can result in fractures or other bone injuries, particularly if the bite occurs on the limbs or face. These injuries may require surgery, immobilization, and rehabilitation to promote proper healing and restore function.
• Facial Injuries: Dog bites to the face can cause significant damage. Reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair the damage and minimize scarring or disfigurement.
• Emotional Trauma: Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and a fear of dogs or specific triggers. Emotional trauma should not be overlooked, and appropriate counseling or therapy may be required for healing and recovery.

It is critical to seek immediate medical attention following a dog bite to assess and treat any injuries properly and prevent complications.

Liability in Albuquerque Dog Bite Cases

New Mexico does not have a specific dog bite statute. Instead, liability in Albuquerque dog bite cases is primarily determined by common law principles and court decisions. This means that the unique circumstances of each case and the court’s interpretation of the law will play a significant role in determining liability.

Under common law in New Mexico, a dog owner may be held liable for injuries caused by their dog if they knew or should have known that the dog had previous aggressive behavior or dangerous tendencies. This is often referred to as the “one-bite rule.” In addition to the one-bite rule, New Mexico courts have recognized other legal theories that can establish liability in dog bite cases, such as negligence. Under a negligence theory, a dog owner may be held responsible if they failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling or restraining their dog, which resulted in the dog bite incident.

Types of Compensation Available in a Dog Bite Case

In a dog bite case in Albuquerque, the following various types of compensation, also known as damages, may be available to the victim:

• Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for all past and future expenses related to the treatment of injuries resulting from the dog bite. For instance, hospital bills, surgeries, medications, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and any necessary ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages: If the dog bite injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income during recovery. This includes both past and future lost earnings and any reduced earning capacity if you suffer a permanent impairment.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort caused by the dog bite incident. This includes the immediate pain and suffering experienced at the time of the attack as well as any long-term consequences, such as scarring or disfigurement.
• Emotional Distress: Dog bite incidents can have a significant psychological impact on victims, leading to anxiety, fear, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other emotional distress. Compensation can be sought for the emotional harm suffered as a result of the incident.
• Property Damage: If the dog bite incident resulted in damage to personal property, such as torn clothing or a broken phone, you can seek compensation for the cost of repair or replacement.

In cases involving a dog owner or third party who exhibited extreme negligence, the court may also award punitive damages as punishment and deter others from similar conduct.

Contact Our Albuquerque Dog Bite Lawyers Today

To schedule a free consultation and learn more about how our Albuquerque personal injury lawyers can assist you in your dog bite case, call (505) 207-4401 or message us online.