Dog bites can be a serious and traumatic experience, both physically and mentally. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in Stoughton, Massachusetts, it is important to seek legal advice from experienced personal injury lawyers. At The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan, we understand the emotional distress and physical pain that can result from a dog bite, and we are committed to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Our team of Stoughton personal injury lawyers has extensive experience handling dog bite cases and can provide you with expert legal advice. We understand the laws and regulations surrounding dog bites in Massachusetts and can help you navigate the legal system to ensure that your rights are protected. We will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you have been injured in a dog bite incident in Stoughton, Massachusetts, do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We will review your case and provide you with honest and straightforward legal advice. Our goal is to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve so that you can focus on your recovery and move forward with your life.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Stoughton
As personal injury lawyers in Stoughton, we understand that dog bites can be a serious and traumatic experience. It’s important to know your rights and the laws that are in place to protect you.
Massachusetts Dog Bite Statute
In Massachusetts, dog bites are governed by Chapter 140 Section 155 of the Massachusetts General Laws. This statute imposes strict liability on dog owners for any harm caused by their dogs. This means that the owner is responsible for any damages caused by their dog, regardless of whether or not they were negligent.
Liability and Negligence
Under the Massachusetts Dog Bite Statute, liability is determined based on strict liability rather than negligence. This means that the owner is responsible for any injuries caused by their dog, even if they took reasonable precautions to prevent the dog from biting.
However, if the victim of the dog bite was trespassing on the owner’s property, or was provoking the dog, the owner may not be held liable for any injuries sustained.
Owner Responsibilities
As a dog owner in Stoughton, you are responsible for ensuring that your dog is properly restrained and under control at all times. This includes keeping your dog on a leash when in public and ensuring that your property is secure to prevent your dog from escaping. If your dog does bite someone, you are required to report the incident to the local animal control officer within 24 hours. Failure to do so could result in fines or other penalties.
What Should I Do After Being Bit By A Dog?
If you have been bitten by a dog in Stoughton, Massachusetts, take immediate action to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the steps you should take after being bit by a dog:
- Seek Medical Attention: The first and most important step is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite seems minor, you’ll want to have a medical professional assess the wound and determine if it needs further treatment. Dog bites can easily become infected, and prompt medical attention can prevent serious complications.
- Gather Information: If possible, gather information about the dog and its owner. This includes the owner’s name, address, and phone number, as well as the dog’s breed, age, and vaccination history. If there were any witnesses to the attack, get their contact information as well.
- Document the Injury: Take photos of the injury and keep a record of any medical treatment you receive. This documentation can be useful if you decide to pursue legal action.
- Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer: If you have been injured by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced dog bite lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the claims process.
Remember, dog bites can be serious injuries, and it is important to take them seriously. By taking the steps outlined above, you can protect your health and legal rights after a dog bite in Stoughton, Massachusetts.
The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan: Stoughton Personal Injury Lawyers
At The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan, we understand that dog bites can be traumatic and lead to serious injuries. Our Stoughton personal injury lawyers have years of experience in handling dog bite cases and are dedicated to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve.
We know that dog bites can cause serious injuries, such as lacerations, puncture wounds, infections, and scarring. Our team of personal injury lawyers will work with you to ensure that you receive the medical attention you need and that your medical bills are covered.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Stoughton, contact us for a free case consultation.
