A dog attack can be an unexpected event that is scary and painful. When a dog lunges at you and you cannot get away, the injuries sustained can be life-altering. If a dog bites you, you need to speak with a knowledgeable Framingham dog bite lawyer to protect your legal rights.

At Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C., our lawyers fight for people injured because of a dog attack. A personal injury attorney from our team could help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact our lawyers today to discuss the facts of your case.

What Does the Law Say About Dog Bites?

Dog owners are responsible for their dog’s actions and are liable for damages if their dog bites someone. If the owner or keeper is a minor, the parent or guardian of the minor is liable. However, the injured party cannot be trespassing, teasing, or abusing the dog (Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140 § 155). Additionally, there is no one bite rule. This means that the dog does not need to have a history of biting for the owner to be held responsible for its actions. If a dog bites someone in Framingham, the injured person should consult with an experienced dog bite injury attorney to protect their legal interests.

Statute of Limitations

A victim of a dog attack only has a certain amount of time within which to file a case against the dog owner or keeper. A statute of limitations sets a deadline for bringing a legal action against another person. In Framingham dog bite cases, typically, the victim and their attorney must bring a case within three years of the date of the incident (Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 260 § 2A). An experienced attorney could review the facts and ensure that any deadlines are met.

Estimating the Value of a Dog Bite Case

When a dog bites someone, the value of the case depends on a number of factors. One factor is the extent of the injuries suffered. If the injury is significant and requires surgery and additional care, the value of the case is greater. The type of injury also impacts the potential compensation available. The value of a large bite on someone’s face may be higher than a bite on someone’s leg because the bite to the face may require more surgery. Another factor is the emotional toll of a dog bite. The victim may become fearful of dogs or suffer PTSD as a result of the bite. This may cause the injured party to be unable to go to parks or walk down streets where they can hear a dog barking. The value of a dog bite injury case varies based on these factors, and an experienced Framingham attorney could assist in evaluating the case.

Call a Framingham Dog Bite Attorney Today

A dog attack can cause serious injury. The financial toll can mount if you need surgery and other medical treatment. There is also typically a significant emotional toll on a victim of a dog bite. If a dog has bitten you, speak with a Framingham dog bite lawyer today.

Our team at Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. has experience in working with the victims of dog attacks. We could investigate your claims and provide you with options for moving forward and holding those responsible for your injuries accountable. Contact our team today about your case.