Dog Bite Lawyer Lawrence, MA — Merrimack Valley Dog Attack Attorney

What Is the Dog Bite Law in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts holds dog owners strictly liable for bite injuries under M.G.L. Chapter 140, Section 155. This means the owner or keeper of a dog is automatically responsible for any damage the animal causes to a person’s body or property — even if the dog has never shown aggression before and the owner took every reasonable precaution.

Unlike states that follow the “one bite rule,” where an owner is only liable if they knew the dog was dangerous, Massachusetts eliminates that requirement entirely. The victim does not need to prove negligence. If the dog caused injury, the owner is liable.

The only defenses available to a dog owner are that the victim was trespassing, committing another tort, or teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog. For children under seven, the law goes further: it presumes the child was not provoking the dog, and the owner bears the full burden of proving otherwise.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Attack in Lawrence, MA?

Both the dog’s owner and its “keeper” can be held strictly liable under Section 155. A keeper is anyone who has assumed custody, management, and control of the dog — including a dog walker, pet sitter, or friend watching the animal. If the owner is a minor, the parent or guardian becomes liable.

Landlords may also face liability under a negligence theory if they knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to act. This arises frequently in Lawrence’s dense multi-family housing, where tenants share hallways and yards with dogs they do not own.

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Dog Bites in Massachusetts?

Yes. Most dog bite claims in Massachusetts are paid through the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. This coverage typically applies even when the bite occurs away from the owner’s property. An attorney can help identify all available insurance coverage in your case.

What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover in the Merrimack Valley?

Dog bite victims can recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include emergency medical treatment, surgery, stitches, antibiotics, physical therapy, and lost wages. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and disfigurement.

Scarring is often the most significant component in dog bite cases because bites frequently leave permanent marks on the face, hands, and arms. Massachusetts courts consider the scar’s size, location, and visibility, as well as the victim’s age and gender, when assessing disfigurement compensation.

If the dog had already been officially declared dangerous and the owner failed to control it, Massachusetts law imposes triple damages — the court multiplies the standard award by three.

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite in Lawrence or the Merrimack Valley?

Seek medical attention immediately, then document everything. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection, and many wounds require professional cleaning, stitches, or reconstructive surgery. Lawrence General Hospital and area urgent care facilities treat bite injuries, and your medical records become critical evidence in any claim.

After treatment, take these steps to protect your legal rights. Identify the dog and its owner by collecting their name, address, and phone number. Ask whether the dog is current on rabies vaccination. Gather witness contact information. Report the bite to Lawrence Animal Control — municipalities can investigate attacks and declare animals dangerous, which strengthens a civil claim. Photograph your injuries and the location of the attack.

Do not accept any settlement offer or give a recorded statement to the dog owner’s insurance company before consulting an attorney. Insurers often reach out quickly and offer low settlements before the full extent of injuries is known.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Massachusetts?

You have three years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit, under M.G.L. Chapter 260, Section 2A. If the victim was a minor at the time of the bite, the three-year clock does not start until the child turns 18. Missing this deadline can result in the court dismissing your case, so it is important to consult with an attorney promptly.

Why Hire a Dog Bite Attorney in Lawrence, MA?

Strict liability makes Massachusetts law favorable to victims, but insurance companies still fight to minimize payouts. They may argue the victim provoked the dog, challenge the severity of injuries, or pressure victims into accepting far less than the case is worth.

I have more than 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases throughout the Merrimack Valley. Before becoming an attorney, I worked as an insurance adjuster — so I understand firsthand how insurers build strategies to reduce and deny claims. That perspective allows me to anticipate their tactics and counter them on behalf of my clients.

Dog Bite Attorney Serving Lawrence and the Merrimack Valley — Free Consultation

If you or a family member has been injured in a dog attack in Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, North Andover, Haverhill, Lowell, or anywhere in the Merrimack Valley, we are here to help. We charge no fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our office staff is fluent in Spanish to serve Lawrence’s diverse community. Se habla español.

Call the Law Office of Robert E. Frawley for legal guidance regarding a dog bite claim at 617-523-2929 or visit us at 354 Merrimack Street, Suite 330, Lawrence, MA 01843.