what happens if you’re bitten by a dog in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the liability for a dog bite is governed by both statutory law and common law principles.

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155, the owner or keeper of a dog is strictly liable for any damages caused by the dog’s bite or attack on a person, whether or not the owner knew or had reason to know that the dog had a propensity to bite. This means that the owner can be held responsible for the damages resulting from a dog bite, regardless of whether they were negligent or at fault.In addition to strict liability, Massachusetts also follows the common law principle of negligence. This means that if the dog owner knew or should have known that their dog had a dangerous propensity or a history of aggressive behavior, they may be held liable under a negligence theory.

In such cases, the injured person must show that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling or restraining the dog.It’s important to note that Massachusetts law recognizes certain defenses to dog bite liability. For example, if the injured person was trespassing on the owner’s property or provoking the dog, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. Additionally, a dog owner may argue that the injured person assumed the risk of being bitten by voluntarily encountering the dog in a known dangerous situation.If a person is injured by a dog bite in Massachusetts, they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. It is advisable for the injured person to consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases to understand their rights and pursue appropriate legal action.Please keep in mind that this information is a general overview and should not be considered as legal advice. Consulting with an attorney is the best way to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the liability of a dog bite in Massachusetts.