Beverly Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bites are not minor incidents. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately 334,000 people in the United States are admitted to the emergency room each year due to dog bites. Dog bites can result in serious injuries and lasting emotional trauma.

If a dog bites you, you may be entitled to compensation for the medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you suffered. A Beverly dog bite lawyer from the Cashman Law Firm can discuss your legal rights during a free consultation. We can also explain how we can help during this difficult time.

Massachusetts Dog Bite Laws

Massachusetts is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites, which provides compensation for injury victims after dog bites without having to show the dog owner’s negligence. Under Massachusetts law, if someone’s dog injures another person, the owner or keeper is generally responsible for the damages the dog causes. As such, this includes dog bites as well as other injuries, such as falls that occur when a dog jumps on someone.

Exceptions to Strict Liability

Massachusetts’s strict liability rule comes with some caveats. You cannot recover compensation under this area of the law if you were trespassing or committing another tort at the time of the incident or were teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog. Other legal avenues may be available to recover compensation in such cases, such as showing that the dog owner was violating a leash law and negligent per se or that the dog owner knew the dog was dangerous and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent your injuries. An experienced Beverly dog bite lawyer can review your case and discuss your legal options during a free consultation.

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite?

If someone else’s dog bites you, it’s critical that you prioritize your health and safety. Get away from the dog to prevent further injury. Then, apply first aid to prevent infection or a worsening of your condition. Call 911 or animal control to report the incident. Seek medical attention promptly so your injuries can be properly documented.

If you do not know who the dog’s owner is, try to find out this information. Ask for the dog’s vet records (don’t just take the owner’s word for it that the dog is vaccinated) and insurance information. The owner’s, homeowner’s, or renter’s insurance policy may pay for your damages.

Take photos of all relevant information when it is safe to do so. This could include:

• The location where the dog attack occurred
• The dog
• Your injuries
• Any factors that could have contributed, such as a broken fence

Keep all your medical records and documentation of your damages to help prove your claim.

Contact a Beverly Dog Bite Lawyer Today for Your Free Consultation

The Cashman Law Firm focuses exclusively on personal injury law. If someone else’s dog bites you, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.