Dog Bite Settlements in Massachusetts

If you have been involved in a dog bite in Massachusetts, understanding how the state's personal injury laws affect your claim is essential. Massachusetts follows the modified comparative fault (51% bar) system, and you have 3 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.

Dog Bite Settlement Range in Massachusetts

Nationally, dog bite settlements range from $5,000 to $150,000. In Massachusetts, settlement values are influenced by the state's fault rules, damage caps, and local jury tendencies.

Low

$5,000

Estimated

$35,000

High

$150,000

How Massachusetts Law Affects Your Dog Bite Claim

Massachusetts uses a modified comparative fault system with a 51% bar and has no statutory cap on compensatory or non-economic damages in personal injury cases. The state's mandatory automobile insurance and no-fault PIP system affect how car accident claims are processed before a tort lawsuit can be filed. Boston is home to a highly active plaintiffs' bar, contributing to above-average settlement values.

Under Massachusetts's modified comparative fault (51% bar) system, your settlement may be affected if you share any responsibility for the accident. Your recovery will be reduced by your fault percentage, and you are barred from recovery if your fault reaches 51% or more.

Factors Affecting Dog Bite Claims in Massachusetts

✓Severity of bite and extent of injuries
✓Scarring and disfigurement, especially facial
✓Prior history of the dog's aggressive behavior
✓State liability laws (strict liability vs. one-bite rule)
✓Homeowner's or renter's insurance coverage
✓Psychological trauma and PTSD
✓Medical treatment and reconstructive surgery costs

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Deep lacerations and puncture woundsFacial scarring and disfigurementNerve damageBone fractures from attackInfection (including rabies risk)Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Tendon and muscle damage

Relevant Massachusetts Statutes

•Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2A (statute of limitations)
•Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 231, § 85 (modified comparative fault, 51% bar)
•Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, § 155 (dog bite strict liability)

Dog Bite Claims in Massachusetts Cities

If your dog bite occurred in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Cambridge, Lowell, or anywhere else in Massachusetts, the same state laws apply. Local court systems and jury pools can also influence settlement outcomes.

Calculate Your Claim →← Dog Bite Massachusetts Laws →

This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your state.