Albuquerque Dog Bite Accident Lawyers

People all over the United States own and care for pets, whether seen in a neighborhood, park, or while traveling. Dogs are among the most likable and approachable animals. However, this is not always the case, as many traumatic bites and injuries are endured when unknowingly encountering a defensive dog. While it is not against the law to own a dog and take them to dog-friendly areas in Albuquerque, when a dog injures a child or adult, the owner may be held liable for the personal injuries and damage that ensued. 

If you or your child have been injured by a dog bite, speak with our knowledgeable Albuquerque dog bite accident lawyer at Dominguez Law to review your case and determine the next best steps.

Our Skilled Albuquerque Dog Bite Accident Attorney Helps Navigate Your Injury Claim 

Dogs are among the most common household pets because they are typically friendly. While many enjoy the company of a furry friend, there is always a risk of injury surrounding animals interacting with people. Many pet owners do take necessary action to protect their dogs, keep them well trained, and on a leash for protection. 

Regardless of the dog’s personality, breed, and tendencies, every pet owner has to act and take responsibility. In many other instances, negligent pet owners allow their dogs to roam free, neglect their vaccinations and veterinary care, and fail to add cautionary measures around their home or outdoors. In these cases, when dog bite accidents occur, the injured have a right to take legal action and recover compensation for the traumatic and harmful experience. 

Our skilled attorney helps you navigate the injury claim process by protecting you against insurance tactics, working to ensure you are not offered a lower settlement than what you deserve. With our legal resources, many dog bite accident victims have seen the benefits of legal representation. 

What Are New Mexico’s Dog Bite Injury Laws?

New Mexico’s laws address and enforce the rules for owning and keeping animals such as household dogs. If a pet owner is negligent and breaks any city regulations, they may face criminal charges, fines, and a civil lawsuit if their dog injures another person. 

Laws and regulations for Albuquerque dog owners to follow include:

• All dogs must be vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered. 
• Albuquerque residents may own up to six pets, a maximum of four of which may be dogs. 
• Dogs should not be on a leash longer than eight feet while accompanied by a person able to control the animal. 
• Unless confined to the owner’s property, on a short leash, or muzzled, it is illegal to own a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog. 

If a dog owner is proven negligent or breaks any laws regarding dog ownership, they may be held liable for their pet’s harmful actions. In New Mexico, the ‘one-bite’ rule applies to many cases. This means the dog’s owner may not be liable in the case of a first dog bite. However, any subsequent incidents are used as proof of liability due to their knowledge of their dog’s past actions. Despite this, a dedicated Albuquerque dog bite injury attorney may help your case by evaluating the evidence and circumstances surrounding the accident. 

Proving Liability in an Animal Bite Case 

In a dog bite injury case, the owner is generally liable for the pet’s actions. Depending on the circumstances and where the accident occurred, the liable party’s homeowners or renter’s insurance may be able to cover the damages on their property. Some dog owners also elect pet insurance, which may offer coverage to compensate for accidents. 

In some cases, the opposing counsel may blame the injured by insisting the dog was provoked or the injured party is partially to blame. Our legal team may be able to help you by filing a claim and thoroughly investigating the owner’s liability coverage. We may also build a solid defense to seek justice for you or your injured child. 

Long-Term Benefits of Filing a Personal Injury Claim

When accidents occur, and people are injured, the effects often transcend beyond physical damage. Many people, especially children, may suffer emotional and mental hardships after enduring a vicious attack or scary dog bite. 

Common injuries sustained in a dog bite accident include:

• Puncture wounds 
• Broken or fractured bones 
• Eye injuries 
• Lacerations or bruising 
• Scarring and disfigurement 
• Nerve damage 
• Rabies 
• Mental and emotional effects 

Ways compensation helps dog bite injury victims in the long run include:

• Recovering costs of medical expenses and treatment 
• Lost wages and time off work 
• A parent’s time away from work to care for the injured child 
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs for long-term recoveries
• Mental health treatment for the traumatic event  

Regardless of minor or severe effects, seeking compensation, you deserve aid in your recovery and well-being. Victims of accidents secure the help they need for the long run when pursuing compensation and reaching a settlement. A dog bite lawyer from Dominguez Law Firm is here to help.

Recovering Compensation After an Animal Bite Accident 

Any accident where an individual suffers injuries can affect various areas of their life. Short and long-term recoveries may be necessary to recover from the effects of the injuries and deal with the aftermath of the accident. Especially if a dog bites a child, the results also affect parents’ lives. 

Compensable damages in an Albuquerque personal injury claim include: 

• Pain and suffering 
• Medical bills related to the dog bite
• Lost income 
• Property damage 
• Permanent disability and disfigurement

There may be challenges associated with calculating non-economic and economic damages in personal injury cases because there are various aspects to consider. With a reputable Albuquerque attorney, you can rest assured that your case is handled honestly and for the best outcome. 

Consult With Our Talented Albuquerque Dog Bite Accident Lawyer at Dominguez Law to File an Injury 

At Dominguez Law, we understand that the events and circumstances in your injury case cannot be reversed. However, we understand the law and are eager to help our clients seek justice through an aggressive approach in a personal injury claim. With our English and Spanish-speaking dog bite attorneys, you may feel more at ease throughout the injury claim process and put your best foot forward when seeking compensation. 

We want to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve for your well-being in the long run. To schedule your free consultation with Dominguez Law Firm, complete a contact form or give us a call at (505) 850-5854.