Albuquerque Dog Bite Attorney

Fighting For Dog Bite Victims in New Mexico

Man’s best friend—the canine—remains an animal at heart, regardless of how tame or domesticated they seem. When pet owners overlook this truth, they put others’ safety at risk by failing to properly control their dogs. Even the friendliest dog can attack without warning and inflict severe injuries.

If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite, you may have the right to seek compensation from the liable owner. This can help you recover financially after an injury, instead of draining your personal savings.

Call (505) 219-2176 to get help from our Albuquerque dog bite attorneys.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

When a vicious or rabid dog attacks, the consequences can be severe. Elderly victims or young children may live with the effects for years.

A single dog bite injury can cause:

• Lacerations
• Nerve damage (paralysis)
• Infection
• Death

Dog bite cases often involve psychological trauma in addition to physical wounds. Many victims experience anxiety or flashbacks, especially around unfamiliar or unleashed dogs. When pursuing compensation for pain and suffering, attorneys at Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law, can also help you seek nominal damages for emotional harm tied to the attack.

After a bite in Albuquerque, medical professionals may recommend a follow-up to check for rabies, tetanus, or other complications. Quick access to local emergency rooms like those at University of New Mexico Hospital can make a significant difference in treatment. In many cases, bites require ongoing care, such as additional doctor visits, therapy for trauma, or reconstructive procedures. These steps increase both the physical and financial toll victims may face after a dog attack in our community.

Establishing Fault in Dog Bite Incidents

Every dog has teeth, but not every dog bites. What causes a bite often comes down to the animal’s upbringing. Dogs raised with care are less likely to attack, while neglect or poor training can lead to unpredictable behavior. Allowing territorial instincts to go unchecked can also make even a household pet dangerous to visitors.

Fault may only fall upon the victim if they had been:

• Trespassing on the dog owner’s property
• Committing a crime against the owner
• Intentionally harassing or provoking the dog
• Causing physical harm to the dog

New Mexico law sets strict standards for who must cover damages from a dog bite. In Albuquerque, animal control officers may investigate to confirm owners followed leash and restraint ordinances. These details often influence who is responsible for the attack. Knowing how local and state regulations affect fault in these cases is key to seeking fair compensation.

No One-Bite Rule in New Mexico

Some states excuse a dog and its owner if the animal never showed aggression before. New Mexico does not follow that rule. You can pursue compensation from an owner for their dog’s behavior, regardless of past incidents. This step matters because victims can face thousands of dollars in medical bills and lost wages.

Unlike other states, New Mexico holds dog owners liable for bites even if their animal appeared friendly in the past. In Albuquerque, local code requires owners to restrain their dogs in public and keep yards secured. If a dog gets out and attacks, these ordinances may strengthen a victim's claim under state law. These legal differences mean victims here have a clearer path to recovering compensation for injuries and related costs.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Albuquerque

After a dog bite, quick action protects both your health and your potential claim. First, get medical care for even minor wounds; prompt attention lowers the infection risk and ensures your injuries are well-documented. In Albuquerque, you should also report the bite to the local Animal Welfare Department so that officials can enforce leash and quarantine regulations. Following these steps creates proper records and supports a potential case for compensation.

Collect as much information as you can, including the owner’s contact details, witness names, and photos of your wounds. Timely reporting creates a timeline that can clarify whether the dog owner violated Albuquerque's animal control ordinances. These procedures matter under New Mexico law and can help you build a stronger claim.

Compensation & Damages Available for Dog Bite Victims

Dog bite victims in Albuquerque may recover compensation for several types of losses. Recovery can include payment for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and sometimes future care such as rehabilitation or counseling. Bites that leave permanent injuries or scars often require ongoing treatment, adding to emotional and financial burdens, which courts may consider when determining damages.

State laws take into account the local costs of care in Albuquerque. Actual compensation reflects expenses and losses unique to your situation. Working directly with an attorney gives you a full assessment of potential damages and helps you seek fair recovery under city and state law. This support helps victims move forward, pay bills, and rebuild their lives after an attack.

FAQs

How long do I have to bring a dog bite claim in New Mexico?

State law generally gives you three years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury claim. Acting quickly makes it easier to collect evidence and support your case.

Will the dog be taken away after an attack in Albuquerque?

The city may require quarantine or observation, especially if the dog's vaccination status is unknown, but removal depends on several factors like the severity of the attack and compliance with local rules.

What if the dog owner blames me for provoking the attack?

Owners sometimes argue this, but your legal right to pursue damages depends on the facts of your case. Actions like trespassing or intentionally provoking the dog can affect your ability to recover compensation under New Mexico law.

Would you like to know more about your rights as a dog bite victim? Contact our Albuquerque personal injury attorney today and schedule a free case evaluation!