It is harrowing how many people are injured by dogs each year. These injuries can include scarring, disfigurement, puncture wounds, psychological trauma, etc.

Because the injuries can be so serious to victims, Massachusetts dog bite law is quite strict in holding dog owners responsible for all damages caused by a dog bite and attacks.

Massachusetts Strict Liability Law

Massachusetts dog owners are strictly liable for any personal injuries their dog causes. This is a very strict standard of liability. This means that with very limited exceptions, if a dog bites you, the owner is automatically liable for all injuries and medical bills you incur. That means negligence does not come into play, nor does comparative negligence.

Unless the victim was teasing, tormenting or abusing the dog, strict liability will apply. For children under 7 years old, even if the victim did tease, torment or abuse the dog, strict liability still applies.

Massachusetts Dog Bite Law and Insurance Coverage

As a Massachusetts dog bite lawyer I receive many calls from dog bite victims looking for help. One of the first issues I investigate is whether the dog owner has homeowners or renters insurance.

The reason is that unless the dog owner has money to pay for the damages, it does not usually make sense to pursue the owner. Of course, if there is homeowners or renters insurance, that makes the job of collecting proper compensation for the dog bite victim much easier.

Boston Dog Bite Attorney Christopher Earley Can Help You

Contact Massachusetts dog bite attorney Christopher Earley if you need help with a dog bite claim. We offer free personal injury consultations and can help you during this difficult time.