What if I was bitten by a dog who was off its leash?
If you were bitten by a dog who was off its leash in Massachusetts, you would have a strong case to make for compensation if you decide to sue the dog’s owner. According to Massachusetts law, any dog off its leash is considered a “dangerous dog” and the owner is liable for any damages caused by the animal. Massachusetts law states that the burden of proof is on the defendant—the dog’s owner—to prove that the incident was not their fault. The law is very clear on how the case would be handled. The defendant would have to prove that the dog was adequately restrained at the time of the incident or that the dog’s actions were obviously accidental or justifiable. If the defendant is not able to prove either of those conditions, then the victim would be eligible for compensation for the injuries and damages caused by the bite. In addition to the liability of the dog’s owner, the owner would also likely be required to pay for the dog’s rabies vaccinations and any medical or hospital bills associated with the incident. Finally, depending on the severity of the case, the owner may also face criminal charges if they were found to be negligent or careless in the handling of their pet. If you were the victim of a dog bite, it is important to seek legal advice and determine if you are eligible to make a claim for compensation.
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