New Hampshire Dog Bite & Animal Attack Attorneys

Statute of Limitations

3 years

3 years from the date of the bite/attack (RSA § 508:4)

Dog-Bite Statute

Strict liability

Strict liability — RSA § 466:19 — reaches owners and keepers; broad coverage of dog-caused damages

Comparative Fault Rule

51%

Modified comparative fault, 51% bar (RSA § 507:7-d) for common-law claims

Dangerous Dog Law

RSA § 466:31

RSA § 466:31, 466:31-a — “nuisance” and “vicious” dog determinations and enhanced civil/criminal liability

Leash Law

RSA § 466:31

RSA § 466:31 (dog at large) plus municipal ordinances; violation supports negligence per se

Typical attorney fee

33%

33%–40% contingency — no fee unless you win

New Hampshire RSA § 466:19 imposes strict liability on dog owners and keepers for any damage caused by the dog — no prior-bite history or owner negligence required. The statute reaches a broad class of defendants. Defenses are limited; provocation, trespass, and engagement in unlawful activity at the time may bar or reduce the claim. New Hampshire applies modified comparative fault with a 51% bar (RSA § 507:7-d) for common-law claims; the § 466:19 strict-liability claim is largely insulated. Most claims are paid through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. New Hampshire has an equine-activity statute (RSA § 508:19). An attorney enforces § 466:19, identifies keepers, and pursues the homeowner’s carrier.