Everything You Need to Know About Dog Bite Injuries in Boston

Dog bites can happen when you least expect it. In a busy city like Boston, where pets and people share parks, sidewalks, and homes, these incidents aren’t uncommon.

While most dogs are friendly and well-behaved, even the calmest pets can bite if they feel scared, threatened, or provoked. The results can range from minor injuries to serious physical and emotional trauma, and in some cases, legal disputes.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dog bite injuries in Boston.

How Common Are Dog Bites in Boston?

Boston experiences hundreds of reported dog bite cases every year, with many incidents affecting children and older adults. These groups are particularly vulnerable because they may not recognize warning signs or have the ability to protect themselves.

Dog bites happen in various settings, from public parks to private homes. Even a friendly, well-trained dog might bite if it feels threatened, scared, or in pain. The consequences range from minor scratches to serious injuries requiring medical attention.

Why Do Dogs Bite?

Dogs rarely bite without reason. Even seemingly unprovoked incidents often have underlying causes. Here are some common reasons why dogs bite:

• Fear or Stress
• Protective Instincts
• Pain or Illness
• Poor Socialization
• Provocation

Learning to recognize the signs of discomfort in dogs, such as growling, stiff posture, or retreating, can help you avoid risky situations.

Responsibilities of Dog Owners in Boston

Being a dog owner in Boston means looking after your pet and making sure others stay safe too. Here are some important responsibilities every dog owner should know:

Provide Proper Care and Training

Dogs require basic needs like food, water, and shelter, but proper care goes beyond that. Regular veterinary visits keep your dog healthy, and training helps prevent aggressive behavior. A well-trained dog is less likely to bite or act unpredictably in stressful situations.

Get an Annual Dog License

All dogs over six months old must be licensed every year with the City Clerk’s office. You’ll need proof of a current rabies vaccination to get the license. Licensing helps identify lost pets and ensures that all dogs are vaccinated. If your dog isn’t licensed, you could face fines of up to $50 per violation.

Vaccinate Your Dog

Rabies vaccination is required by law in Boston. Rabies is a dangerous disease that can spread to humans and other animals through bites or scratches. Keeping your dog vaccinated protects the community and avoids legal issues. If your dog isn’t vaccinated, you may face fines of up to $100, and your dog could be quarantined if involved in a bite.

Follow Leash Laws

Boston requires all dogs to be on a leash in public spaces unless they are in designated off-leash areas. This reduces the risk of accidents or aggressive encounters.

• First Offense: Fine up to $50
• Second Offense: Fine up to $100
• Subsequent Offenses: Higher fines may apply.

By following these responsibilities, you not only avoid penalties but also create a safer environment for your pet and your community.

What Does the Law Say About Dog Bites in Boston?

Massachusetts law follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, holding dog owners legally responsible for injuries caused by their pets. This applies even if the dog has no history of aggression or if the owner was unaware of any potential risk.

Victims don’t have to prove the dog’s owner was careless to get compensation. The law is there to hold owners accountable and keep everyone safe.

This rule also applies to anyone handling the dog, like dog walkers or pet sitters, depending on the situation.

If the caretaker is in control of the dog when the incident occurs, they could share responsibility. For example, if a dog walker allows a dog to roam off-leash in a restricted area and a bite happens, liability might shift to them.

Exceptions to Liability in Boston Dog Bite Cases

Not all dog bite cases are straightforward. There are situations where the law protects owners or handlers from being blamed. Here’s a breakdown of when an owner might not be held responsible:

Trespassing

If someone is on the owner’s property without permission and gets bitten, the owner may not be liable. For example, if someone climbs a fence into a yard and the dog reacts, the law often sides with the owner.

Provoking the Dog

Dogs may bite if they feel threatened or provoked. If the victim was teasing, tormenting, or harming the dog, the owner might not be held responsible. Even friendly dogs can react when pushed too far.

Minors

When the victim is a minor, exceptions like trespassing or provocation might not fully apply. Children are considered less capable of understanding the risks or consequences of their actions, and courts often view their cases differently. Owners are expected to take extra precautions to prevent bites involving children.

Committing a Crime

If someone is committing a crime, like burglary or vandalism, and a dog bites them, the owner usually isn’t held liable. The law generally protects owners in cases where their dog is defending their home or property.

Public Service Dogs

Public service dogs, like police K-9s, have special protections under Massachusetts law. If a service dog bites someone while performing its duties, such as chasing a suspect or protecting its handler, the owner (usually a law enforcement agency) isn’t held liable. These dogs are trained for specific roles, and their actions are considered part of their job.

Caretaker Responsibility

If a dog bite happens while the dog is under the care of someone else—like a dog walker or pet sitter—liability could shift to the caretaker. For example, if a dog walker lets a dog off its leash in a public park where leash laws apply, they might share the blame for the bite.

What Are the Common Injuries Caused by Dog Bites?

Dog bites can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Below are the most frequent injuries victims experience:

• Puncture Wounds and Lacerations 
• Infections 
• Nerve Damage 
• Broken Bones
• Emotional Trauma
• Scarring or Disfigurement

If you’ve experienced any of these injuries, seek immediate medical attention and consult a lawyer to protect your rights.

How Can a Boston Dog Bite Lawyer Help?

Navigating a dog bite case can be stressful, especially when the other party disputes responsibility. Here’s how a skilled dog bite lawyer can help you:

Evaluating Your Case

A lawyer will take a close look at your case, focusing on where and how the bite happened to figure out who’s at fault. They’ll also work out how much you could be owed, including coverage for medical bills, lost income, and emotional stress. This is an important first step in building a strong case for you.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible. A lawyer will deal with them for you, making sure you get a fair settlement that covers all your costs. Their experience helps you avoid settling for less than you deserve.

Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary

If a fair settlement can’t be reached, a lawyer can take your case to court. They’ll collect the evidence, present your case, and fight to get you the best outcome. Having an experienced lawyer in the courtroom can make all the difference.

If you’re searching for a Boston dog bite lawyer, DiBella Law Office is ready to help. They offer free consultations and work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there’s no risk to you. Contact them today to see how they can stand up for your rights.

Conclusion

Dog bites are no small matter, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. If you’ve been bitten, see a doctor right away and reach out to a Boston dog bite lawyer to help you get the compensation you need.

For dog owners, keeping your pet trained and supervised is key to preventing these situations and keeping everyone safe.

Author Bio:

Christopher DiBella is the founding partner of DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers. He knows the pain of injury from his own family’s experiences.

Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree from Boston University, graduating cum laude, and his J.D. from Suffolk University Law School. Among his many awards and recognitions are The National Trial Lawyers Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyer, Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Lawyer, and Super Lawyers Rising Star.

With both skill and genuine empathy, Chris is dedicated to helping clients turn their struggles into successful outcomes.

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