Boston Injury Lawyer Blog
Dog bites can result in serious injuries and emotional trauma for victims. In Massachusetts, understanding the laws and regulations surrounding dog bites is important for both dog owners and those who have been injured. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States.
- Nearly 1 in 5 dog bite victims requires medical attention.
- Children are more likely to be bitten by dogs, with the highest rate of dog bite injuries occurring among those aged 5 to 9 years old.
If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite, you may be entitled to substantial compensation for your injuries. The injury team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help
Massachusetts Dog Bite Laws
In Massachusetts, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their dogs under certain circumstances. Key information regarding dog bite laws in Massachusetts includes:
- Strict Liability — Massachusetts follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning that dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of aggression.
- Statute of Limitations — There is a three-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a dog bite in Massachusetts. It’s important to take legal action within this timeframe to protect your rights.
- Comparative Negligence — Massachusetts applies comparative negligence principles in dog bite cases. This means that the injured person’s compensation may be reduced if they are found partially at fault for the incident.
- Homeowner’s Insurance Coverage — Many homeowner’s insurance policies provide coverage for dog bite liability, which can help compensate victims for medical expenses and other damages.
When pursuing compensation for a dog bite injury in Massachusetts, it’s essential to demonstrate that:
- The defendant owned or had control over the dog.
- The dog caused the injury.
- The victim was legally allowed to be at the location where the incident occurred.
What to Do If You’ve Been a Victim of a Dog Bite
If you’ve been bitten or injured by a dog in Massachusetts, take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention — Immediately seek medical treatment for your injuries, no matter how minor they may seem.
- Report the Incident — Report the dog bite to local animal control authorities and gather information about the dog and its owner
- Document Evidence — Take photographs of your injuries and the scene of the incident, and collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney — An experienced attorney can assess your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Altman & Altman, LLP — Top Personal Injury Law Firm in Massachusetts
Dog bite laws in Massachusetts are designed to protect victims and hold dog owners accountable for the actions of their pets. If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, don’t hesitate to reach out to Altman & Altman, LLP for compassionate and knowledgeable legal assistance. Our team has an impressive track record of obtaining maximum
