Dog bites and dog attacks cause thousands of injuries every year in Massachusetts — ranging from minor puncture wounds to severe lacerations, scarring, nerve damage, and psychological trauma. If you were bitten or attacked by someone else’s dog in Massachusetts, you have strong legal rights under the state’s dog bite statute, and in most cases, you can recover compensation without needing to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
Massachusetts Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Massachusetts has one of the strongest dog bite laws in the country. Under M.G.L. Chapter 140, Section 155, a dog owner is strictly liable for damages caused by their dog biting, attacking, or injuring any person or property — with very limited exceptions. Strict liability means you do not need to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had bitten before (the common law “one bite rule” does not apply in Massachusetts). If the dog bit you, the owner is generally liable.
The two main exceptions to strict liability under the Massachusetts statute are: (1) if the injured person was trespassing at the time of the attack; and (2) if the injured person was teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog. These exceptions are narrow, and defense attorneys who argue them face the burden of proving the exception applies. Children under the age of seven are presumed by the statute not to have been trespassing or provoking the dog.
Common Injuries in Massachusetts Dog Attacks
Dog bite injuries vary significantly in severity. Puncture wounds and lacerations can require emergency treatment, stitching, and monitoring for infection — dog bites carry a serious risk of bacterial infection including Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and in some cases Capnocytophaga. More serious attacks — particularly those involving large or aggressive breeds — can cause deep tissue damage, nerve injuries, tendon injuries, and permanent scarring. Facial injuries are particularly serious, particularly in children, and may require multiple reconstructive surgeries. Beyond the physical injuries, dog attack victims often suffer significant psychological trauma including PTSD, anxiety, and lasting fear of dogs.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Dog Bite in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts dog bite law, you can recover economic damages including medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, reconstructive procedures, physical therapy, and counseling), lost wages during recovery, and any future medical costs for ongoing treatment or scar revision. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering and emotional distress. In cases involving permanent scarring or disfigurement, damages can be substantial. Homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies typically cover dog bite liability, so there is often a source of compensation available even when the dog owner appears to lack personal assets.
What to Do After a Dog Attack in Massachusetts
Seek immediate medical attention. Report the attack to local animal control authorities — this creates an official record and helps protect others from future attacks by the same dog. Photograph your injuries as they develop over the hours and days following the attack. Identify and get contact information for any witnesses. Preserve any clothing damaged in the attack. Do not accept an early settlement offer from the owner’s insurer without consulting an attorney. Contact Larson Law for a free consultation to understand the full value of your claim.
Results Disclaimer: Past case results, settlements, and verdicts mentioned on this website do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is unique and depends on its own facts and legal issues.