In Massachusetts, dog bite incidents, especially those involving children, can lead to serious legal consequences for dog owners. The state's dog bite laws are among the strictest in the country, imposing strict liability on owners in many situations. If your dog bites a child, here’s what you can expect and how you can protect both your dog and yourself.
Strict Liability in Massachusetts
Massachusetts follows a strict liability law for dog bites, meaning that the dog owner is legally responsible for any injuries caused by their dog, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior. This law applies even if your dog has never shown aggression before. As long as the child was not trespassing, teasing, or provoking the dog, the owner can be held liable for the injuries.
Legal Consequences of a Dog Bite
If your dog bites a child, you could face:
Civil Lawsuits: The child’s family may sue for damages, which could include medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages for time parents take off work to care for the child.
Animal Control Involvement: Massachusetts laws require that the bite be reported to animal control authorities. They may investigate the incident, and in severe cases, your dog could be quarantined or even deemed dangerous.
Potential Quarantine: Following the bite, your dog might be quarantined for a 10-day period to ensure it is free of rabies. This could happen at your home or at a shelter, depending on the circumstances.
Dangerous Dog Designation: If animal control determines that your dog is dangerous, additional restrictions could be placed on the dog, such as mandatory muzzling in public or, in extreme cases, the possibility of euthanasia.
Defending Your Dog
While Massachusetts law holds dog owners responsible in many cases, there are defenses you can use to protect your dog. For example, if the child provoked your dog or was trespassing, this could reduce your liability. Additionally, evidence of proper training, vaccinations, and safety precautions you’ve taken could help in defending your case.
How Boston Dog Lawyers Can Help
At Boston Dog Lawyers, we specialize in defending owners and their dogs in bite cases. We understand that dog bites often occur under stressful, unintentional circumstances, and we’re here to represent your dog’s best interests. Whether you’re facing a civil lawsuit or dealing with animal control, we will guide you through the legal process and work to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your dog.
Contact Boston Dog Lawyers
If your dog has bitten a child, don't hesitate to reach out. Boston Dog Lawyers has a strong track record of defending dog owners and ensuring fair outcomes. We offer consultations to discuss your case and legal options.
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