Massachusetts dog bite laws can protect you after an attack, but the first few steps matter. A dog bite can happen in seconds. The injuries can last for months or longer. If you’re facing medical bills and missed work, you deserve clear answers and real help.

At Joel H. Schwartz, P.C., we’ve spent over 60 years helping people just like you get back on their feet. We’ve seen how much these injuries can disrupt a life, and we believe you shouldn’t have to carry the financial burden of someone else’s pet’s behavior. Our team has recovered over $500 million for our clients, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for your recovery.

Massachusetts dog bite laws: strict liability in plain English

Massachusetts follows “strict liability” for many dog bite cases. That helps victims. Some states use a “one-bite rule.” That rule can make proof harder.

Here, Massachusetts dog bite laws put responsibility on the owner or keeper in most cases. The main statute is Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 155. If a dog causes damage to a person or property, the owner or keeper is usually liable. Prior bites do not matter. Good intentions do not erase responsibility.

Are There Exceptions?

While the law is very much in favor of the victim, there are a few exceptions to strict liability. The owner may not be held liable if the person bitten was:

  • Trespassing: Being on the property without permission.
  • Provoking the dog: Teasing, tormenting, or abusing the animal.
  • Committing a tort: Engaging in other illegal acts at the time.

It is also worth noting that the law is even stricter when children under seven are involved. In those cases, the law presumes the child was not trespassing or provoking the dog, putting the burden of proof on the dog owner to prove otherwise.

Boston dog bite lawyer in a professional office discussing legal rights and strict liability laws with a client.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite

The moments following an attack are chaotic, but taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights. If you’ve been bitten, here is what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Even if the bite seems minor, dog mouths are full of bacteria. Infections like Pasteurella, staph, or even MRSA can set in quickly. According to the Mayo Clinic, animal bites that break the skin should be evaluated by a professional to prevent complications or rabies concerns. Keep all your records; these are vital for your dog bite lawyer to build your case.

2. Identify the Dog and the Owner

You need to know who the dog belongs to. Get the owner’s name, address, and phone number. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information as well. If the dog was a stray, try to remember its appearance and where it went so Animal Control can locate it.

3. Take Photos

If you are able, take photos of the scene, the dog (if safe), and most importantly, your injuries. Take photos immediately after the attack and as the healing process continues. Pictures of bruising, stitches, and scarring tell a story that words cannot.

4. File an Official Report

Contact the local police or Animal Control. Filing an official report creates a paper trail of the incident. This is a crucial piece of evidence in any personal injury claim. For more information on why this matters, check out our guide on how to obtain and use a police report.

5. Call a Boston Injury Lawyer

Before you talk to an insurance adjuster, talk to us. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for the lowest amount possible. We can help you understand the full value of your claim, including future medical costs for scar revision or psychological counseling.

Why You Need a Boston Injury Lawyer

You might think, “The law says strict liability, so why do I need an attorney?” While the law is clear, the insurance process is anything but. Most dog bite claims are paid out through the owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. These companies have teams of lawyers dedicated to minimizing what they pay out.

An experienced Boston Injury lawyer from our firm will:

  • Investigate the incident: We gather evidence to ensure the “exceptions” like provocation don’t unfairly bar your claim.
  • Handle the insurance company: We take the stress off your shoulders by managing all communication.
  • Calculate your true damages: We look beyond the immediate ER bill. Are you going to have permanent scarring? Do you have a new fear of dogs that requires therapy? Did you miss two weeks of work? We make sure every type of pain and suffering is accounted for.
  • Go to court if necessary: If the insurance company won’t play fair, we aren’t afraid to take them to court. We’ve been doing this for over six decades, and we know our way around a courtroom.

A dog bite victim with a bandaged arm recovering in a Boston park, symbolizing legal relief and peace of mind.

Special Considerations for Children

Unfortunately, children are the most frequent victims of dog bites. Because of their size, they are often bitten on the face, neck, or head, leading to significant trauma. We know how heart-wrenching this is for parents.

Beyond the physical healing, many children develop a long-term fear of animals or public spaces. We are passionate about protecting families and ensuring they have the resources needed for both physical and emotional recovery. We even offer resources for parents on dog safety for kids to help prevent future incidents.

The Financial Side: Our Contingency Fee Promise

One of the biggest worries people have when looking for a dog bite lawyer is the cost. At Joel H. Schwartz, P.C., we want to make the legal process as stress-free as possible. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis.

What does that mean for you?

  • No upfront costs: You don’t pay us a dime to get started.
  • No hourly fees: You don’t have to worry about a clock ticking every time we talk on the phone.
  • We only get paid if you win: Our fee is a percentage of the final settlement or court award. If we don’t recover money for you, you owe us nothing.

This allows you to focus 100% on your recovery while we handle the heavy lifting of the legal system.

Experienced Boston injury lawyer standing in front of a local courthouse ready to fight for maximum compensation.

Why Choose Joel H. Schwartz, P.C.?

With so many firms out there, why choose us? It comes down to experience and results. For over 60 years, our firm has been a staple of the Boston legal community. We aren’t just a face on a billboard; we are your neighbors.

When you call our office, you aren’t just another case number. You’re someone who has been through a traumatic event, and you deserve to be treated with respect and compassion. We’ve recovered over $500M because we are relentless advocates for our clients. Whether your case involves complicated liability issues or a straightforward insurance claim, we have the resources and the grit to see it through.

Don’t Wait to Protect Your Rights

Time matters in injury cases. Massachusetts has deadlines that can limit your options. Evidence can also fade fast. Witnesses move. Video can get deleted.

If you or a loved one has been injured, reach out to a dog bite lawyer today. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll explain your options under Massachusetts dog bite laws. We’ll also help you understand what your case may be worth under Massachusetts dog bite laws.

Let us help you get the compensation you deserve so you can move forward with your life. You’ve been through enough; let our family help yours.

Contact Joel H. Schwartz, P.C. today at our contact page or give us a call to schedule your free consultation.