You Can Sue for Dog Bites in New Hampshire: But What About Wild Animal Attacks?

Anyone with common sense will tell you that a pet owner is responsible for the actions of their animal. In other words, they may be held liable for any injuries caused by the animals. But what happens when there is no “owner” of the animal that carried out the attacks? What happens when the injuries were caused by a wild animal? While these situations are relatively rare in New Hampshire, they have the potential to cause costly medical expenses, missed wages, and emotional distress.

Four Hospitalized after Vicious Fox Attack in New Hampshire 

On October 5th of 2023, it was reported that a strangely aggressive fox had attacked a post office in New Hampshire. Four people were hospitalized as a result of this animal attack. Although it’s not exactly clear why the fox decided to mount an assault on the post office, local authorities are not ruling out the possibility of rabies. Unfortunately, some of the victims were bitten – which means that they may have become infected with rabies also.

The attack began when a postal worker was attacked by the wild fox outside of the post office. To seek protection from the animal, the worker ran back inside the post office. However, the sly fox followed the worker straight through the automatic doors. It was at this point that the animal began wreaking havoc inside the post office. With nowhere to run, four occupants suddenly faced the prospect of sharing their somewhat cramped workspace with a highly aggressive fox.

Eventually, all four workers managed to make it out of the office and subsequently sought hospital treatment. They have been checked for rabies, and local authorities stressed that this fox may have attacked other people nearby as well. Eventually, the fox was located and euthanized.

Can You Get Compensation for a Wild Animal Attack in New Hampshire? 

Since the fox had no owner, there is likely no personal injury claim, BUT these workers could still pursue compensation through the workers’ compensation claim process. The workers’ compensation system is essentially a form of “no-fault” insurance, which means there is no requirement to prove that your employer is to blame for your workplace injury, just that you were an employee who suffered an accidental workplace injury or occupational disease which arose out of your employment and occurred during the course of your employment.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Personal Injury Attorney or Workers’ Compensation Attorney in New Hampshire? 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Manchester personal injury attorney, look no further than the Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC. We know that all kinds of animal attacks in New Hampshire may lead to serious injuries, including dog bites. Regardless of how you have become injured on someone else’s property, it may be possible to file an injury claim and recover compensation. Book your consultation today to determine the most appropriate course of legal action.

Sources: 

wmur.com/article/rochester-new-hampshire-fox-attack-bite-10523/45460423#

boston.com/news/local-news/2023/10/06/aggressive-fox-attacks-4-nh-authorities-await-rabies-results/