Dog Bite Claims

Know Your Rights to Get the Best Recovery Possible

Dog bites and animal attacks are traumatic and can cause significant bodily injuries.

Massachusetts law G.L. c. 140, s. 155 governs dog bite claims. Dog bite claims are made against either the owner or person in control of the dog at the time of the injury. The standard that applies to dog bite claims is what we call "strict liability." What this means is that an injured person does not need to prove that the person in control was negligent. Instead, the owner or person in control of the dog is assumed to be responsible for paying the medical bills and pain and suffering of the dog bite victim.

The owner or person in control of the dog can claim certain specific defenses according to the statute, including:

The victim was trespassing at the time of the bite; and
The victim was teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog at the time of the bite.

If you have been injured as the result of a dog bite, there are several important steps you can take to improve your chances of getting the best recovery possible:

Get the medical treatment you need for your injuries. Your health cannot be replaced. Do not delay. Go to the hospital or your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any injuries from a rear-end car accident.
Preserve all evidence of the incident, including getting witness names and contact information and photographs of your injuries and from the scene of the incident.
Call a lawyer! Insurance companies are stacked with professionals whose goal is to minimize the payments they need to make to you for your dog bite injury claim. Speak to a professional today to make sure you also have an expert on your side. Hiring a lawyer to fight for you at no out-of-pocket cost is the smartest move you can make.

With over a decade of experience representing clients injured by dog bites, the professionals at the Law Offices of Samuel A. Segal know what it takes to get you the best recovery possible.

The time to file your claim is limited, so reach out to us today for your Free Consultation.

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