We've all heard the expressions: "Man's Best Friend." While the expression may be true in most situations, there are circumstances where a dog is anything but a best friend. We are talking about dog bites. Dog bites can be physically traumatic and emotionally devastating. They can result in serious and permanent injuries, such as scarring and disfigurement. Emotional and psychological harm can also result from dog bites. Just like in other personal injury cases, a victim of a dog bite in Massachusetts can pursue compensation for the injuries suffered. The injured person may seek compensation for medical bills, future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional injuries.
Our Dog Bite Lawyers Help Hold Dog Owners Accountable
Massachusetts is a strict liability state with respect to dog bites. This means, the owner(s) of the dog may be held liable if you are bitten by a dog and suffer injuries even when the dog's owner(s) is not negligent. In Massachusetts there is a specific law, that covers dog bite injuries. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155 holds a dog’s owner responsible if: (1) the dog causes personal injury or property damage, and (2) the injured person was not trespassing, committing another tort, or provoking the dog. So, in most cases the issue is about how much the victim should be compensated and not whether the dog owner is responsible.
In dog bite cases, you must establish who owns the dogs and, as stated in the statute, that the injured person did not trespass and/or provoke the dog by teasing or tormenting the dog. Also you must substantiate your injuries. This is why you should seek medical attention immediately.
Generally, the dog owner's home owners insurance policy is available to cover liability and the damages a dog causes another person.
Victims May Recovery Money For Injuries Caused By A Dog That Do Not Occur From An Actual Bite
As the name implies, the Massachusetts dog bite statute covers injuries victims suffer from a dog bite. These injuries include lacerations, scars, and broken bones. But, the dog bite statute also covers injuries or damages caused by someone else's dog that was not sustained by an actual dog bite.
For example, if someone else's dog jumped on you and knocked you over causing you to strike your head on the ground and suffer a head injury, you have the right to file a claim for compensation for the head injury and consequential damages. Likewise, if you are out for a bike ride and someone else's dog chases you down the street and caused you to fall off your bike and break your arm, you can file a claim in Massachusetts for compensation for your injury.
This is why, if you have been injured by a dog, whether from an actual bite or from a dog in general, you should contact a personal injury lawyer that is experienced in handling dog bite cases in Massachusetts.
If You Have Been Harmed In An Animal Attack, Contact Our Dog Bite Lawyers
If you or someone you know has been attacked or bitten by a dog you should identify the dog and its owner, seek medical attention, photograph all injuries, and contact an experienced lawyer. The attorneys at Mahaney & Pappas, LLP have handled numerous dog bite cases. We are here to help you recover the money you deserve.
Call us today at 508-879-3500 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We offer contingent fees on dog bite cases. This means, you don't pay us until and unless you recover compensation.