When you are attacked and bitten by a dog, it can cause lasting trauma. If you are researching to find a personal injury attorney, then locating one with empathy and compassion is essential. At the same time, you want someone knowledgeable and aggressive enough to get you the compensation you deserve.
Dogs are man’s best friend but can attack for various reasons; finding an attorney that understands this might be your goal. If you feel you were involved in an unprovoked attack by an aggressive animal, you could use help keeping your community safe and recouping your damages. A Massachusetts dog bite lawyer from GED Lawyers can represent you while you focus on your recovery.
What Should I Do After a Dog Attack?
You should take several steps following a vicious animal attack or dog bite. Managing these details could help preserve the information you might need to collect damages to cover your medical costs. Here are some steps to consider after your bite.
Make a Police Report
Even if you later decide not to pursue a case against the owner, making a report with the authorities is vital. It could help prevent a tragedy. It is necessary because if this animal begins to have a history of biting people, local authorities may determine the animal is dangerous and aggressive.
Pay Attention to the Details
You may not have all the information on the animal. If possible, see if you or a friend can get the owner’s contact details. Take pictures of the animal and your injuries. Look around you to see if there were any witnesses to the attack. If your injuries are severe, have a friend or relative get the contact information of the witnesses.
Get Medical Help
Your health should be your first concern, before any other matters. You must seek medical attention after a dog bite. Dog bites can cause serious infections even if they appear minor, and you will need to know the animal’s immunization status. If you cannot get that information, you may have to undergo vaccinations to prevent illness.
Keep Records
You should keep all records of treatment, medical costs, or anything related to your dog bite. Any costs, including your travel to and from appointments, are included. The receipts for your treatment are critical in demonstrating the damages you are owed from the dog owner.
What Are the Recoverable Damages in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts allows for different compensatory damages if you have a personal injury claim. Compensatory damages cover your losses from your dog bite injury. Economic damages are usually verifiable costs associated with your injury, like a medical bill or prescription cost. Non-economic damages cover losses not so clearly defined, like pain and suffering.
Types of Economic Damages
- Medical bills
- Future medical costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Home care, if needed
Types of Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Disability
- Loss of life enjoyment
Does Massachusetts Have a Deadline for Filing Lawsuits?
States have limitations on filing personal injury cases. One of these limits states how long you have from the time of your injury to the time you can file your claim. These laws are meant to keep everything timely. So, what is the law in your state?
Statute of Limitations
According to regulations (Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 260 § 2A), if you have a personal injury case in Massachusetts, it must be filed within three years. You have three years to file your personal injury case from the date of your injury.
Are There State-Wide Laws for Dogs in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts has set state-wide legislation regarding dangerous animals, including dogs. The laws state that anyone can file a complaint but that dogs who are growling, barking, or otherwise protecting their young pups or owners are not considered dangerous. Dogs are not regarded as hazardous simply based on breed.
Are There Special Rules for Vicious Animals?
Yes, there are special rules for animals deemed a nuisance or possibly dangerous. Some restrictions can include keeping the dog restrained, but the rules are specific to indicate they do not state to chain a dog to an inanimate object like a tree.
Dogs ruled to be a nuisance must be kept confined, either in the home or in an enclosed pen outdoors. Leashes must not be longer than 3 feet. Dogs ruled dangerous should wear a muzzle when traveling. Many of these regulations are common sense for anyone with a dog that may bite or be hazardous.
Can I Afford a Law Firm for a Dog Bite Personal Injury Case?
Our firm operates on a contingency-fee basis. This arrangement means you don’t pay anything if we don’t win your case. If you do, you agree to a percentage. Once you win your case or accept a settlement offer, we can settle your bill at that time.
Complimentary Case Review
When you call, ask for a free review of your case. Our office offers a complimentary case review. We can answer any of your questions, discuss fees or arrangements, and let you know what we think your claim is worth. It’s free and can help you get the answers you need to decide to file your claim.
Who Can I Contact in Massachusetts If I Have a Dog Bite Injury Claim?
If you were attacked or seriously bitten by a dog, please contact GED Lawyers. Our office has attorneys who can help to evaluate your claim. Our attorneys are empathetic to how injuries like dog bites can impact families and the need to collect damages for your injuries.
Your Massachusetts dog bite lawyer can review the situation and help determine where the fault lies in your case. In addition, our team has dedicated investigators. They can determine if this is an ongoing and repeat situation for the animal. Let us help you with your dog bite claim; call us today.
