Animal Attack Lawyer in Massachusetts

Animal Attacks and Massachusetts Strict Liability

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140 imposes strict liability on animal owners for bite and attack injuries. This means that an animal owner is legally responsible for injuries caused by their animal regardless of whether the animal had previously shown dangerous tendencies, and regardless of whether the owner knew about any prior aggressive behavior. There is no requirement to prove that the owner was negligent or that they had reason to know their animal was dangerous. The bite or attack itself establishes liability, as long as the victim was not trespassing and was not provoking the animal. Attorney Jeffrey C. Lavey represents animal attack victims throughout Massachusetts.

The Scope of Massachusetts Animal Attack Liability

Massachusetts strict liability applies to any injury caused by a dog or other domesticated animal. This includes bites, scratches, knockdown injuries caused by jumping, and other aggressive contact. It extends beyond the animal’s owner to any person who harbors or keeps the animal. If a dog attacks a child on a sidewalk, the owner is responsible. If a horse kicks a visitor to a stable, the operator may be responsible. Attorney Lavey evaluates every animal attack for all potentially responsible parties and all applicable legal theories.

Serious Injuries From Animal Attacks

• Lacerations requiring suturing, and in severe cases, reconstructive surgery
• Scarring and disfigurement, particularly from facial bites
• Puncture wounds with elevated infection risk including MRSA and rabies
• Tissue avulsion injuries requiring surgical repair or skin grafting
• Nerve and tendon damage from deep bite injuries
• Bone fractures from powerful bite forces, particularly in arm and hand injuries
• Psychological trauma and PTSD, particularly in children

Children as Animal Attack Victims

Children are disproportionately represented among serious dog bite injury victims. Children’s smaller size and face-level position relative to large dogs create a higher risk of facial bites, and children are less able to recognize warning signs or defend themselves. When a child is attacked, Massachusetts law provides extended time limits for the personal injury claim. Attorney Lavey handles child animal attack cases with the care and thoroughness they deserve.

Homeowner’s Insurance and Compensation

Most dog bite and animal attack claims are covered by the animal owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. These policies typically include personal liability coverage that applies to animal attack claims. In cases where the owner lacks adequate insurance or coverage is disputed, Attorney Lavey evaluates all available sources of recovery. Compensation includes all medical expenses, lost wages if the injuries affect work, pain and suffering, future reconstructive treatment costs, and psychological care costs.

Frequently Asked Questions