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Experiencing a dog bite incident can be both traumatic and confusing. Whether it’s a minor nip or a severe attack, knowing what to do immediately after can make a significant difference in your health, safety, and potential legal claims. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where specific laws govern dog bites, taking the right steps can help ensure you receive the medical care you need and protect your legal rights.
The moments following a dog bite are crucial. The first step is to remove yourself from the immediate vicinity of the dog to prevent further injury. If the dog belongs to someone else, identify the owner and take note of the dog’s breed, size, and behavior. If possible, ask the owner about the dog’s vaccination history, especially for rabies, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Once you are safe, assess the wound. Even minor bites can lead to infections, so it’s essential to clean the area immediately with mild soap and warm water. Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding and cover the wound with a sterile bandage. While smaller wounds may not require stitches, deeper lacerations or puncture wounds should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. If the wound is bleeding profusely, involves broken bones, or results in significant tissue damage, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Dog bites range in severity, and this can play a role in both medical treatment and legal action. A superficial bite that does not break the skin may only require basic first aid, while a deep puncture wound can introduce bacteria that cause infections such as cellulitis or tetanus. Severe bites may cause nerve damage, permanent scarring, or even psychological trauma, particularly in children who are more vulnerable to attacks due to their smaller size.
Medical professionals categorize dog bites using a grading system from Level 1 (a near-bite or aggressive behavior without skin contact) to Level 6 (fatal injuries). Most personal injury claims involve Level 3 or higher, where the skin is punctured. If you experience severe swelling, warmth, or pus at the wound site, or if you develop a fever, seek medical attention immediately as these could be signs of infection. In some cases, reconstructive surgery or physical therapy may be required for recovery.
Once you have sought medical care, documenting the incident is crucial for potential legal claims. Take clear photos of your injuries, any torn clothing, and the location where the bite occurred. If there were witnesses, collect their contact information, as their statements could be valuable in a legal case. Keep copies of medical records, prescriptions, and any communication with the dog’s owner or insurance company.
If the dog bite occurred in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement. This is particularly important if the dog has a history of aggression. In Massachusetts, state law requires all dog bites to be reported to the local health department. This ensures that the animal can be evaluated for rabies and that necessary steps are taken to prevent future attacks.
Both Massachusetts and New Hampshire enforce strict liability laws regarding dog bites. This means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries their pet causes, regardless of whether the dog has bitten someone before. Unlike states that require victims to prove negligence, Massachusetts and New Hampshire hold dog owners liable unless the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or engaged in unlawful behavior at the time of the attack.
Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 140, § 155) protects dog bite victims by ensuring that owners are responsible for covering medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Similarly, New Hampshire (RSA 466:19) imposes strict liability on dog owners, emphasizing victim compensation over proving fault. If you were bitten while lawfully on public or private property, you have the right to seek financial recovery for your injuries.
Pursuing a dog bite claim can be complex, particularly when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize payouts. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and any long-term effects of the bite.
The attorneys at Kiley Law Group have extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Their compassionate and knowledgeable legal team understands the emotional and physical toll of these incidents and works diligently to protect the rights of victims. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, contacting Kiley Law Group for a free consultation can be the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
Even after receiving medical treatment, it’s important to monitor the wound for signs of infection or complications. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, and attend follow-up appointments if necessary. If you experience difficulty moving the affected area, persistent pain, or psychological distress, consider seeking further medical or therapeutic support.
Dog bite incidents can be overwhelming, but taking swift and informed action can make all the difference. Prioritize your health, document the incident thoroughly, and seek legal guidance if needed. With the right approach, you can ensure both physical recovery and financial justice following a dog bite injury.
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite incident in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Kiley Law Group, we’re here to provide compassionate, results-driven representation.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
