What can I do if the owner of a dog refuses to pay for my medical bills?
If the owner of a dog refuses to pay for your medical bills after they or their pet has caused you injury, there are a few avenues for recourse that are available in the state of Massachusetts. First, you should file a complaint with the local animal control authority or police station. This will help to ensure that the person who owns the animal is held accountable. Typically, animal control or police will investigate the incident and if they find the dog’s owner to be at fault, they may order them to pay restitution for your medical bills. If that avenue is unsuccessful, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the dog’s owner. Massachusetts has strict dog bite laws which state that the owner of a dog is liable for any injury or damages caused by the animal, including medical bills. Therefore, if the owner of the animal refuses to pay for your medical bills, you can file a civil lawsuit for monetary compensation. Finally, if the owner is found to be at fault, you may be able to seek compensation from their homeowner’s insurance policy. Some policies will cover any dog-related damages or medical bills that are caused by the pet, though it is important to be aware that homeowner’s insurance claims can take a long time to process. In any case, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney if you find yourself in this situation. A professional can provide you with the best course of action to get the compensation that you need and deserve.
Related FAQs
What can I do if I'm bitten by a dog in a public place?What if the owner of the dog refuses to pay for my medical bills?
Is the owner of a dog held responsible for bites?
How much compensation can I get for a dog bite?
Is there any type of compensation for dog bite victims?
What if I was injured by a dog who was off its leash?
Do I need to prove negligence in a dog bite case?
Can I get compensation for emotional distress from a dog bite?
How do I get compensation for emotional distress from a dog bite?
What is the law on dangerous breeds of dogs?
Related Blog Posts
What Dog Owners Should Know About Dog Bite Law - July 31, 202310 Common Questions About Dog Bite Law - August 7, 2023
What Are the Laws About Dog Bites? - August 14, 2023
What are the Penalties for Dog Bites? - August 21, 2023
Are Dog Bite Laws the Same in All States? - August 28, 2023