Dog bites and attacks can be traumatic experiences, especially when the responsible animal belongs to a neighbor. If you’ve been bitten or attacked by your neighbor’s dog in Massachusetts, understanding your legal rights and the steps you should take is crucial. This comprehensive guide, updated for 2025, will walk you through the process and explain how Percy Law Group, PC can assist you in seeking justice and compensation.
Massachusetts Dog Bite Laws: Strict Liability Explained
In Massachusetts, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155. This means that if a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner is responsible for the victim's injuries, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had taken precautions.
Key Points of Strict Liability:
- No Need to Prove Negligence: Victims do not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent.
- Exceptions: Liability may not apply if the victim was trespassing, teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog at the time of the attack.
- Children Under Seven: Children under the age of seven are presumed not to have provoked the dog, making it easier for them to claim damages.
If your neighbor’s dog bit or attacked you, and you were lawfully on the property and not provoking the dog, the owner is likely responsible for your injuries.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Bite or Attack
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, it's essential to get medical care to prevent infections and document the injury.
- Report the Incident: Contact your local animal control or police department to report the attack. This creates an official record of the incident.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and any relevant surroundings.
- Document Witnesses: If there were any witnesses to the attack, get their contact information and statements.
- Notify the Dog Owner: Inform your neighbor about the incident, but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
Understanding the Legal Process in Massachusetts
Filing a Claim
Massachusetts law gives you three years from the date of the dog bite or attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. And if the victim was a minor at the time of the attack, the three years starts when they turn 18, which can be many years after the attack.
Potential Damages
Victims of dog bites or attacks may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injury.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress and physical pain endured.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of damaged property.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the defendant.
Dealing with Neighborly Relations
Addressing a dog bite or attack involving a neighbor can be delicate. While pursuing legal action is your right, maintaining a level of civility can be beneficial. Consider the following:
- Open Communication: Discuss the incident calmly with your neighbor to understand their perspective and intentions.
- Mediation: If direct communication isn't effective, consider mediation services to resolve the matter amicably.
- Insurance Claims: Often, homeowner's insurance policies cover dog bite incidents. Your neighbor's insurance may handle the claim, reducing personal conflict.
How Percy Law Group, PC Can Assist You
At Percy Law Group, PC, we specialize in personal injury cases, including dog bites and attacks. Serving the Taunton area and beyond, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to advocating for victims' rights.
Our Approach:
- Free Initial Consultation: We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and legal options.
- Aggressive Representation: Our team is committed to pursuing maximum compensation for your injuries.
- Comprehensive Services: From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle all aspects of your case.
- Multilingual Support: We provide services in Spanish and Portuguese to accommodate our diverse community.
Contact Percy Law Group, PC Today
If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a neighbor's dog in Massachusetts, don't navigate the legal process alone. Contact Percy Law Group, PC, for expert legal assistance. Our team is here to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.