Dog attacks can happen suddenly and leave lasting physical and emotional damage. For many victims, the impact goes far beyond the initial injury. Medical treatment, recovery time, and ongoing trauma can change daily life in ways that are difficult to anticipate.
At Gottesman & Hollis, P.A., we recently secured two significant results in New Hampshire dog attack cases, one settling for $325,000 and another for $500,000. These cases highlight how serious dog-related incidents can be, even when the circumstances differ.
Below, we share the facts behind these cases and what they reveal about dog bite claims in New Hampshire.
A $325,000 Dog Bite Settlement: Severe Physical Injury and Lasting Trauma
In one case, a 68-year-old retired man was speaking with neighbors on a shared driveway when he was suddenly attacked by a dog. The animal bit into his arm and tore away a large section of skin, leaving a deep wound that extended down to the muscle.
The injury could not be closed with stitches. Instead, it required extensive medical care, including repeated wound treatment and debridement. The healing process took more than a year, and the victim was left with a permanent scar measuring approximately six inches.
However, the physical injury was only part of the impact.
The victim continued to live next door to the dog that attacked him. Each time he entered or left his home, the dog’s presence caused significant anxiety. Over time, this developed into ongoing emotional distress, including symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress.
Key Factors in the Case
- Severe tissue loss and long-term wound care
- Permanent scarring and sensitivity
- Emotional trauma caused by continued exposure to the dog
- Liability under New Hampshire’s strict liability law
Suit was filed in this case, and it ultimately settled at mediation prior to trial. The matter resolved for $325,000, reflecting both the physical injuries and the lasting psychological impact.
A $500,000 Settlement: Serious Injury Without a Direct Dog Bite
Not all dog attack cases involve a direct bite to a person. In another case, a 55-year-old woman and her husband were walking their dogs in Nashua. Each was handling a dog on a leash, and both leashes were retractable.
During the walk, two larger dogs ran out from an ungated yard and attacked their pets. As the situation escalated, the retractable leashes became tangled around the woman’s legs, causing her and her husband to fall.
As a result, she suffered a torn rotator cuff in her dominant shoulder, along with other injuries.
Her recovery was far from simple.
She underwent surgery to repair the shoulder, but the repair failed during physical therapy. This required a second surgery and extended her recovery by another six months.
What Made This Case Unique
- The victim was not directly bitten
- The injury occurred during the dog attack incident
- The case involved both strict liability and negligence claims
- There were early disputes about dog ownership and insurance coverage
Evidence played a critical role in this case. Surveillance footage from the defendants’ property helped establish how the incident occurred. There was also evidence that the yard had previously been secured with a temporary barrier, but it was not in place at the time of the attack.
Despite initial complications, including a self-represented defendant early in the case, the claim was successfully resolved for $500,000 after litigation began.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in New Hampshire
New Hampshire follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog-related injuries. This means that dog owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their animals, even if the dog had no history of aggression.
However, each case still depends on the specific facts.
Liability may be affected if:
- The injured person was trespassing
- The dog was provoked
- There are disputes about ownership or control of the animal
In addition to strict liability, claims may also involve negligence, such as failing to secure a yard, control a dog, or prevent foreseeable harm.
Why These Cases Matter
These two cases show that dog attack claims are not always straightforward.
- Some involve severe bite injuries and long-term trauma
- Others involve serious injuries caused during the incident itself
- Insurance and liability issues can complicate the process
- Strong evidence can make a significant difference in the outcome
Most importantly, they demonstrate that victims may be entitled to compensation even in situations where the injury does not come from a direct bite.
What to Do After a Dog Attack
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, taking the right steps early can make a difference in your case.
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document your injuries and treatment
- Report the incident if necessary
- Avoid discussing the case with insurance companies before speaking with an attorney
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim or offer a quick settlement that does not reflect the full extent of your damages.
Talk to a Nashua Dog Bite Lawyer Today
Dog attack cases can involve complex legal and factual issues, especially when injuries are severe or liability is disputed. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help ensure your case is handled properly from the start.
At Gottesman & Hollis, P.A., we prepare every case as if it is going to trial. This approach allows us to negotiate from a position of strength and pursue the compensation our clients deserve.
If you have been injured in a dog attack, call (603) 889-5959 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
We fight for you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal guidance tailored to your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.
