Skilled Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in Albuquerque, New Mexico

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At the Ruhmann Law Firm, our Albuquerque dog bite injury lawyers know that each day, one person in the U.S. is bitten by a dog every 75 seconds.

We also know that dog bites will affect injured people differently, depending on the type of dog that bit them, the person’s size, and their ability to quickly escape from the dangerous situation.

The reality is, one in five people who suffer a dog bite must seek medical care for their injuries, and the more severe they are, the longer their recovery.

The average dog bite claim in New Mexico is just over $40,000. Without a skilled Bernalillo County personal injury attorney by your side, you could be paying for your medical care out of your pocket while suffering the double loss of being out of work and without a paycheck until you are fully healed.

Do not let a dog bite injury devastate your finances and your livelihood. Contact our experienced dog bite attorneys in Albuquerque today to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help you hold the dog’s owner liable for your full financial recovery.

The dog looks aggressive and dangerous possible case of dog bite and need of dog bite injury lawyer.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Albuquerque, NM

New Mexico follows strict liability laws when it comes to dog bite injuries. This means that if you are bitten by a dog, the owner is automatically held responsible, regardless of whether the dog has previously shown aggressive behavior. However, there are specific elements of a dog bite claim that need to be proven in order to secure compensation for your injuries. An experienced dog bite injury lawyer in Albuquerque can help you understand the complexities of the law and guide you through the claims process.

In Albuquerque, dog owners are required to maintain control of their pets and ensure their dogs do not pose a risk to others’ safety. Failure to do so can lead to significant legal consequences for the dog owner. If you are bitten by a dog that is not under proper control, it is important to seek immediate medical attention and legal counsel to protect your rights.

Dog Bite Injury Accident Statistics For Albuquerque, NM

Dog bite injuries remain a significant public safety concern both nationally and locally in Albuquerque. While comprehensive city‑specific data is limited, available figures indicate that Albuquerque has hundreds of reported dog-bite incidents annually, with one report indicating around 750 bites in recent years. These figures likely understate the true number, since many dog bites go unreported because victims do not seek medical care or choose not to report the attack to authorities.

At the national level, dog bites are far more common than many people realize. Estimates suggest that about 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year, which amounts to around 2% of the U.S. population. Of those, an estimated 800,000 people require medical treatment annually due to dog bite injuries, and many of these are treated in emergency departments.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

Instead of a legal statute, like most states have, our state has a uniform jury instruction stating that if the dog owner knew or should have known that their animal was vicious or tended to be vicious, they are liable for the damages directly caused by the dog.

However, if the injured person provoked the dog, or unnecessarily or voluntarily put him or herself in harm’s way, the dog owner is not liable for their injuries.

The second factor in pursuing a dog bite claim against the owner is determining whether the injuries fall under strict liability and negligence.

Strict liability would apply if the dog owner knew the dog was dangerous and failed to keep visitors safe from attack.

Negligence would apply if the dog owner failed to confine the dog or prevent an injury from occurring. This is typically the case when a dog owner leaves a gate or door open and the dog is free to bite someone, or if the owner does not have the dog confined on a leash, and it bites someone.

In either case, partnering with a skilled dog bite attorney in Albuquerque will allow you to focus on your physical and emotional recovery while we build your case to pursue the maximum compensation you may be entitled to under our New Mexico personal injury laws.

Our Albuquerque Personal Injury Attorneys also focus on the following practice areas:

What are the Most Common Albuquerque Dog Bite Injuries?

Dog bites and attacks can be severe and require extended medical and ongoing care requirements that last weeks, months, or even years.

Depending on the type of dog, the person’s size, and ability to remove themselves from the attack, and where the dog bites were inflicted, some may suffer permanent injuries that change their lives going forward.

Some of the most common Albuquerque dog bite injuries may include:

Defensive wounds from fighting off the attack
Face and neck injuries
Pierced or ripped skin
Broken or crushed bones
Puncture wounds
Torn muscles or ligaments
Mobility problems
Scarring and disfigurement
Nerve damage
Infections, including rabies, tetanus, or MRSA

This infographic shows that Common Dog Bite Injuries in Albuquerque

If you have been bitten by a dog in New Mexico and require medical care for your injuries, contact our skilled personal injury lawyers in Albuquerque today to discuss your unique recovery needs, so we can pursue the compensation you are entitled to for your complete damages.

What Type of Financial Compensation Can I Pursue After a Dog Bite Injury in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

Each dog bite victim’s injuries are unique and will require different levels of care. For instance, if you were bitten by a dog and require reconstructive surgery, your medical bills, time away from work, and overall recovery needs will go beyond that of a person who required stitches for their injuries.

While there are many factors that will determine your overall compensation needs, a major one will include how the injuries have affected your day-to-day activities and your long-term quality of life.

For example, if you are a server in a restaurant and sustained injuries that make it impossible to do your job effectively, your lost wages will be more than someone who could go back to work at a desk job sooner.

At the Ruhmann Law Firm, our skilled dog bite attorneys in Albuquerque will outline each of your recovery needs to pursue the financial compensation you need to get your life back.

That may include:

Current and future medical care needs
Lost wages and diminished working capacity
Temporary or permanent disability
Mental anguish
Pain and suffering
Property damage

Why Choose Ruhmann Law Firm for Your Dog Bite Injury Case in Albuquerque, NM

At Ruhmann Law Firm, we know that dog bite injuries can be life-changing. If you or a loved one has been attacked, you need a law firm dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s why so many people in Albuquerque choose us:

Proven Success in Dog-Bite Claims: We have a strong track record of securing compensation for clients facing medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Whether it’s a minor or severe injury, we’re here to fight for your rights.
Personalized Approach: Every case is unique. We take the time to understand your specific situation, investigate the incident thoroughly, and ensure that your case gets the attention it deserves.
Compassionate Counsel: We recognize the emotional toll of dog bite injuries, especially for children. Our compassionate team supports you through the legal process, so you can focus on recovery.
Local Knowledge: With knowledge of Albuquerque and New Mexico’s strict liability laws, we ensure your case is handled correctly and efficiently in accordance with local regulations.
Relentless Advocacy: From negotiations to court representation, we fight relentlessly to secure fair compensation for your injuries.
Experienced Attorneys: Our team of personal injury attorneys provides reliable legal advice and advocacy to help you recover from your injuries.

Contact Our Dedicated Dog Bite Injury Attorney in Albuquerque, New Mexico for a Free Consultation Today

If you were bitten by a dog in New Mexico, contact our experienced personal injury attorneys in Albuquerque today at the Ruhmann Law Firm at 505-388-9500 for a free consultation to learn how we can help you pursue the dog owner’s insurance policy for your full financial recovery, so you can put these injuries behind you and move forward with confidence.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Bite Injury Attorney Albuquerque

Can I sue for a dog bite injury in Albuquerque?

Yes, in Albuquerque, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim if a dog bit you. New Mexico law holds dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets, especially if the dog has a history of aggression or if the owner was negligent in controlling the animal. Consult with our dog bite injury attorneys to determine if you have a case.

Are there time limits for filing a dog bite injury claim?

Yes, New Mexico has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bite cases. Typically, you have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. It’s essential to act quickly to ensure your rights are protected. Contact our dog bite lawyers in Albuquerque as soon as possible for assistance.

What are the common injuries from dog bites?

Common dog bite injuries include puncture wounds, lacerations, bruising, infections, nerve damage, and, in severe cases, amputations or disfigurement. Emotional distress and psychological trauma, especially in children, are also common after a dog bite incident. Our Albuquerque injury attorneys can help you navigate the recovery process.

Will my dog bite case go to trial in Albuquerque?

Not all dog bite cases go to trial. Many are settled out of court through negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced attorneys at Ruhmann Law Firm are prepared to take your case to trial to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Does Albuquerque have breed-specific dog bite laws?

Albuquerque does not ban specific dog breeds but enforces ordinances for dangerous dogs. The owner may face stricter penalties if a dog has a history of aggression. Our attorneys can help you understand how breed-specific factors affect your case.

What should I expect during a dog bite injury lawsuit?

If you file a dog bite injury lawsuit in Albuquerque, you can expect a process that includes gathering evidence, negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company, and potentially going to trial if a fair settlement is not reached.

Will insurance cover my dog bite case in Albuquerque?

In many cases, dog bite injuries are covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. However, the specifics depend on the insurance policy. A dog bite lawyer in Albuquerque can help you navigate the process of filing a claim with the insurance company and advocate to ensure you receive fair compensation.

What if the dog bite occurred on private property in Albuquerque?

If the dog bite occurred on private property, you may still have grounds for a claim if the dog owner was negligent. For example, if the owner failed to restrain the dog properly or knew it was dangerous, they could be liable for your injuries.

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When filing for a case I had absolutely no clue where to begin and thankfully my son and I were taken care of by Ruhmann Lawfirm. Despite the pandemic they were very orderly and professional with my case making me feel comfortable with any questions I had, leaving no room for uncertainty. I definitely recommend asking for Juan. Thank you Ruhmann Lawfirm. Justice was served for me and my son.

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