Dog Bite Attorney in Newton, MA
Dog bite attacks are traumatizing incidents. Because dogs are generally considered loving and loyal animals, it is upsetting and shocking when a dog suddenly attacks. If you have recently been bitten or attacked by someone else’s dog, you are likely entitled to financial compensation.
Dog bites often result in serious injuries that require extensive medical attention, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and lengthy recovery. Victims may sustain injuries including:
- Head trauma
- Deep wounds, punctures, or lacerations
- Deep scarring
- Disfigurement
- Broken and/or fractured bones
- Infections
- Nerve Damage
- Psychological distress
We represent clients in dog bite matters throughout Massachusetts, including Newton, Cambridge, and the Greater Boston area.
Massachusetts Strict Liability for Dog Bites
Massachusetts has a “strict liability” law for dog bites. The owner or the keeper of a dog that attacks or bites another person is legally responsible for the victim’s injuries. The victim does not need to prove that the dog owner acted negligently, or that the owner had prior knowledge of the dog’s penchant for aggressive behavior.
The victim will be awarded damages as long as he/she did not trespass on the dog owner’s property, or in any way mock, torment, or abuse the dog.
Insurance for Dog Bites and Compensation
If you have been bitten by another person’s dog, you are entitled to compensation for all damages associated with your injuries. These damages may include lost wages, current and future medical expenses, costs of medications, any physical therapy, counseling for psychological trauma, insurance costs, and any pain and suffering sustained. At a trial, a jury will determine the amount of damages due, including compensation for pain and suffering.
Fortunately, most Massachusetts homeowner’s insurance policies will cover damages resulting from dog bites. As a result, when one of our clients suffers a dog bite injury, one of our first tasks will be to identify the homeowner and the homeowner’s insurance policy (or that of the dog’s “keeper”), and to put such insurance company on notice that we are making a claim against their insured homeowner. The insurance company will then have a duty to defend the homeowner (which means to retain an attorney on behalf of the homeowner) and to pay all damages (or the amount of a settlement) up to the policy limits.
The benefit of homeowner’s insurance policies is that injured victims do not need to rely solely on the immediate financial assets of the homeowner in order to obtain a settlement or to collect on a judgment. This is a great benefit, as often many homeowners do not have substantial cash readily available to pay a large judgment.
What Should You Do if You Suffer a Dog Bite in Newton, MA?
After getting medical treatment, call our firm. We can help you document your case so that you can get full compensation. We will also help you through the process of dealing with medical providers and insurance companies while you get the treatment you need.
We offer a free consultation, and there is no fee unless we are successful in obtaining compensation for you. Please call us today to get started.
More Reading
______________________________________
Client Review
“I came to Matt in a time of uncertainty. He really listened to what I had to say, what I was going through, and had sound advice and action to help get me through a tough time. At the end of the day he helped provide a favorable outcome for me, and I am thankful I made the decision to hire him and the team at Fogelman & Fogelman. I can not recommend them enough. Thank you again for all of your help.”
Google 5 Star Review – J.M.
