Massachusetts law assigns liability for any attack to the owner or keeper of the dog. If the owner is a minor, liability is on the parent or guardian of the minor. An exception to this rule applies if the victim of the attack was trespassing, teasing, tormenting or abusing the dog. However, this trespass and abuse exception does not apply to children under the age of seven.
If you or a loved one was a victim in a dog attack in Massachusetts, speak with a qualified Massachusetts dog bite lawyer at the law offices of Sweeney Merrigan Law LLP. We offer FREE consultations, call today.
What Are the Dog Bite Laws in Massachusetts?
Each state has unique laws regarding dog bite incidents. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155 states the owner or keeper of a dog will be liable for any damages the dog causes to another person or property. This is a strict liability law, meaning the injured victim will not have to prove the pet owner knew or should have known about the dog’s violent tendencies or that the pet owner was negligent. Obtaining a dog bite settlement or verdict takes three main elements of proof:
- The defendant was the owner or handler of the dog at the time of the attack.
- The dog caused the victim’s injuries or property damages.
- The victim was not instigating the attack, provoking the dog, trespassing or committing another crime or wrongdoing.
Whether the pet owner was negligent is irrelevant to a dog bite case in Massachusetts. A dog bite victim does not have to prove the dog had bitten someone before. The owner will be liable for damages even if the dog had never exhibited violent or aggressive behaviors in the past.
Is Someone Liable for Your Damages from a Dog Bite in Massachusetts?
The owner of the dog that bit or attacked you will most likely be liable for your damages. These can include medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Massachusetts’ strict dog bite liability law makes pet owners almost always legally responsible for the actions of their pets, regardless of fault or negligence.
If the dog that bit you has an owner or someone who was controlling the dog at the time of the bite, that party may be liable. If a stray dog bit you, you may have a case against a property owner or the city instead for failing to prevent the attack. Contact the Massachusetts dog bite lawyers at Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers today to learn more about your legal options.
What Is the Average Dog Bite Settlement in Massachusetts?
As an injured dog bite victim, you may be eligible to recover the amounts you spent in medical bills, lost wages, property damage repairs and more. A successful dog bite action could also result in additional compensation for intangible damage such as physical pain, emotional trauma, the psychological effects of the attack and punitive damages.
If you suffered a catastrophic injury that will leave permanent scarring or disfigurement, you could receive significant compensation from the liable dog owner. Settlements and verdicts won for personal injury claims in Massachusetts vary case by case. A consultation with a dog bite attorney can help you understand what your case could be worth.
What Should I Do If I Get Bitten By a Dog in Massachusetts?
A dog attack can be an extremely frightening and traumatic experience. In the aftermath of a serious dog attack, take steps to protect yourself physically, legally and financially. A dog bite lawyer can help you learn what to do after a dog bite incident in Massachusetts.
- Collect information. Take photographs of the dog that bit you and your injuries. Your lawyer may be able to use these photographs to prove the dog in question caused your injuries. Get the name and contact information of the pet owner as well.
- Go to the hospital. Request immediate medical care for your dog bite injuries. You may need emergency intervention such as a blood transfusion to make up for blood loss. Prompt health care could prevent infections and other serious complications.
- Hire a dog bite attorney. A Massachusetts dog bite attorney can support you and your family during this difficult time. We can help you go up against the pet owner in pursuit of justice and fair financial compensation.
If a dog bites you in Massachusetts, protect your rights by speaking to a Massachusetts personal injury attorney right away. A dog bite lawyer will know the local laws and how to position your case for the best possible results. Your attorney can review the facts of your case, gather proof of your serious injuries and bring a civil action against the responsible pet owner.
What Are the Most Common Dog Bite Injuries?
Dog attacks and bites have severe and long-lasting effects on victims. Injuries that typically result from dog attacks are:
- Crushed or broken bones
- Lacerations and tissue loss
- Permanent scarring
- Disfigurement
- Abrasions and puncture wounds
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Damages for dog attacks are also available for a situation in which a dog attacks livestock such as pigs or cattle
Our Massachusetts Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help With Your Case
If you have been injured by a dog bite or dog attack, you are entitled to compensation for medical and other expenses arising from your injuries. Dog bites often leave scars that are permanent and dogs owners are usually covered by their homeowners’ insurance policy for dog bite incidents.
At Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers, we will provide a timely assessment of your case and pursue expeditious settlement so that you receive the compensate you deserve. If you or a loved one has been attacked or bitten by a dog or other domestic animal, contact a Massachusetts dog attack lawyer at Sweeney Merrigan Law today. We will provide you with a free consultation and assessment of your claim. Our team of Massachusetts dog bite attorneys will do everything in out power to protect your rights and bring your claim to a successful conclusion.
