Can You Sue for a Dog Bite?
Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been bitten, you may be wondering: can you sue for a dog bite? In many cases, the answer is yes. Massachusetts law provides strong protections for dog bite victims and allows them to pursue compensation when a dog owner is legally responsible.
Massachusetts Dog Bite Laws Explained
Massachusetts follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before and even if the owner did nothing “wrong.” As long as the victim was lawfully on the property and did not provoke the dog, the owner may be liable for the injuries.
This strict liability standard makes Massachusetts one of the more victim-friendly states when it comes to dog bite claims.
When Can You Sue for a Dog Bite?
You may be able to sue for a dog bite if:
- The dog bite caused physical injury
- You were legally allowed to be on the property where the bite occurred
- The dog was not provoked
- The victim is not trespassing or committing a crime at the time of the bite
Parents may also sue on behalf of children who are bitten, which is common since children are often more vulnerable to serious dog bite injuries.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite?
In most cases, the dog’s owner is legally responsible. However, liability may also extend to:
- A landlord who knew about a dangerous dog on the property
- A caretaker or dog walker who was in control of the dog at the time
- A business owner if the bite occurred on commercial property
Determining liability often requires a detailed investigation into who had control over the dog and the circumstances surrounding the attack.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?
If you sue for a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Plastic or reconstructive surgery
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Scarring and disfigurement
In severe cases, dog bite injuries can lead to permanent damage, especially when the victim is a child.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can protect your health and strengthen your claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor bites
- Report the bite to local animal control or public health authorities
- Document the injury with photos and keep medical records
- Get the dog owner’s contact and insurance information
- Avoid discussing the incident with insurance companies without legal advice
How a Dog Bite Attorney Can Help
Dog bite claims may seem straightforward, but insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny responsibility. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the incident, identify all liable parties, gather evidence, and negotiate aggressively for fair compensation. If necessary, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and take your case to court.
Speak With Boston Injury Law Group About Your Dog Bite Case
If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Boston Injury Law Group helps dog bite victims across Massachusetts understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.Contact Boston Injury Law Group today for a free consultation to find out if you can sue for a dog bite and what your next steps should be.
