New Bedford Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites are often unexpected. Many attacks involve pets that seemed friendly moments before the incident, leaving victims shocked and unsure of what to do next. In addition to painful physical injuries, a dog bite can lead to medical expenses, missed work, scarring, and emotional trauma that may last long after the wounds heal.
Fortunately, Massachusetts law provides important protections for dog bite victims. At Rob Levine Law, we know these laws and have extensive experience pursuing compensation for those harmed by dog attacks. Our New Bedford dog bite lawyers can explain your rights and help you take the next steps with confidence.
Find out what your case is worth.
Legally Reviewed by:
Last Updated:
July 22, 2026
Table of Contents
- What Should Parents Do After Their Child Suffers a Dog Bite?
- What Can Rob Levine Law Do After a Dog Bite In New Bedford?
- What Injuries Are Common in Dog Bite Claims?
- What Compensation Is Available After a Dog Bite?
- How Is Liability Assigned in New Bedford Dog Bite Accidents?
- How Long Do You Have To File a Dog Bite Claim in Massachusetts?
- Why Hire The New Bedford Dog Bite Accident Lawyers at Rob Levine Law?
- Dog Bite FAQs
What Should Parents Do After Their Child Suffers a Dog Bite?
If your child has been bitten by a dog, acting quickly can help protect both their health and any future claim.
First, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, and other complications that are not always immediately visible. A prompt medical evaluation is especially important for parents of children who suffer trauma in an accident because children may not be able to fully communicate their symptoms.
Next, report the incident to animal control or other local authorities, who will investigate and generate a police report. A report will document what happened, identify the party responsible for controlling the animal, and may detail whether the dog has a history of aggressive behavior.
You should also document the injury by taking photographs of the wounds, the location where the attack occurred, and any visible information about the dog. If possible, collect information about the dog’s breed, owner, and vaccination history.
What Can Rob Levine Law Do After a Dog Bite In New Bedford?
Massachusetts law generally makes dog bite claims more straightforward than many other personal injury cases because dog owners are often strictly liable for the injuries their animals cause. However, that does not mean recovering compensation is automatic. Insurance companies may still dispute the severity of your injuries, argue that you provoked the dog, or challenge the value of your claim.
Rob Levine Law helps address those issues by building a clear and well-documented case. The legal team gathers medical records, photographs, witness statements, animal control records, and information about the dog’s history. This evidence can help establish the impact of the attack and support your claim.
The firm also handles negotiations with insurance companies and all communications related to your claim. With remote and in-office meetings, 24/7 availability, and our Fee Free Guarantee®, Rob Levine Law focuses on helping injured victims pursue compensation while they focus on recovery.
Hear from Our Satisfied Clients
Professional and Caring Legal Assistance for Personal Injury Cases
I’m so grateful for Maria Virginia Gorobat, Delaney Grune, and their team for the care and dedication they’ve shown while handling my son’s dog bite case. From the very first conversation, they made sure we felt supported and informed every step of the way. As a mom, it brought me so much peace knowing my child’s case was in good hands. They were patient, understanding, and always took the time to explain everything clearly. The communication and follow-up emails, texts, and calls made me feel like I picked the right law firm to handle my son’s case. I truly appreciate their professionalism and compassion throughout this process. I highly recommend Maria and Delaney to anyone looking for an attorney who genuinely cares and fights for their clients.
Yalixia F.
Professional, Supportive, and Always There for You
My experience with Rob Levine Law has been wonderful. They truly care about you and your well-being. If you’re looking for lawyers to represent you, give Rob Levine Law a call. Thank you, Duane RLL! Very nice, was able to answer all my questions, and made me feel comfortable being represented by Rob Levine Law.
Walden F.
Supportive & Timely Communication
Andrea Zannos and Leonardo Chinchihualpa have been extremely helpful and supportive in all my needs. They follow up in a timely fashion for medical updates and also to see how I feel, which is a personal touch. I’m very pleased with their expertise and how they’ve handled all my questions and the entire process, which has been seamless. I highly recommend this team!
Maria C.
What Injuries Are Commonly Seen in Dog Bite Claims?
Dog bite injuries can range from relatively minor wounds to life-changing physical and emotional trauma. Many victims suffer lacerations and puncture wounds that require stitches or surgery. Infections are also a serious concern and may require treatment, including preventative care for rabies or tetanus.
A dog attack can cause injuries beyond the bite itself. Victims may suffer broken bones if they get knocked to the ground, and bites to the face or other visible areas can leave permanent scarring or disfigurement.
Emotional injuries can be just as significant. Many victims, particularly children, experience anxiety, fear around animals, or other psychological effects that require counseling or therapy as part of the recovery process.
What Compensation Is Available After a Dog Bite?
While there is no average dog bite settlement that applies to every case, compensation can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the circumstances.
Compensation from a dog bite claim may cover medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future treatment needs. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover lost wages and compensation for reduced earning capacity. You can also pursue compensation for your pain and suffering, scarring, disfigurement, and loss of quality of life for any effects on your ability to enjoy your normal activities.
In rare situations involving particularly reckless conduct, punitive damages may also be available. A New Bedford personal injury lawyer can evaluate your damages and pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
Calculate the Value of Your Case
Use our free personal injury settlement calculator to determine how much your case may be worth. This calculator is designed to give you a value with a range based on thousands of case we have settled.
How Is Liability Assigned in New Bedford Dog Bite Accidents?
Massachusetts follows a strict liability standard for dog bite cases. Thus, a dog owner or keeper can be held responsible for damages even if the dog has never bitten anyone before and the owner took precautions to prevent an attack. In most cases, you do not need to prove the owner or keeper acted negligently. However, they will not be held liable if the victim was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the dog with teasing or abuse.
Massachusetts also follows a modified comparative negligence system, and disputes sometimes arise over whether an injured person contributed to the incident. If a victim is less than 51% at fault for the bite, they may recover damages, but their compensation will be reduced in proportion to their share of the fault.
The law provides additional protections for children. If a child under seven suffers injuries in a dog attack, Massachusetts law presumes the child did not provoke the animal. These victim-friendly laws can make it easier for injured individuals and families to pursue compensation after a dog bite.
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts statute of limitations generally gives dog bite victims three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. While three years may seem like plenty of time, waiting can make it more difficult to build a strong claim. Acting promptly allows your attorney to investigate while important evidence remains available.
There may be limited exceptions depending on the circumstances, particularly when the injured victim is a minor. However, you should never assume additional time applies without speaking with an attorney. Missing the filing deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation, regardless of the strength of your claim.
Why Hire Our New Bedford Dog Bite Accident Lawyers at Rob Levine Law?
Rob Levine Law has spent more than 25 years helping injured individuals navigate difficult situations. During that time, the firm has helped more than 50,000 people and recovered more than $2 billion in disability benefits and injury compensation.
Rob Levine Law remains actively involved in the communities it serves while maintaining high ethical standards and a client-focused approach. As our clients have said in reviews, responsive communication and compassionate service remain central to the firm’s mission.
Our firm also believes in price transparency. Rob Levine Law charges 33% for personal injury matters and offers a reduced 25% rate for first responders, police officers, firefighters, rescue personnel, and military members.
Call (888) 791-9135 or contact us to speak with our New Bedford dog bite lawyers today.
Dog Bite FAQs
How Do I Get the Dog’s Vaccination Records to Make Sure I Don’t Need Rabies Shots?
Animal control authorities often obtain vaccination information as part of their investigation after a reported dog bite. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether additional treatment is necessary while animal control or local authorities work to verify the dog’s vaccination status.
What if a ‘Beware of Dog’ Sign Was Posted? Does That Mean I Can’t Sue?
A warning sign does not automatically prevent an injured person who was legally on the premises from pursuing compensation. Massachusetts dog bite laws may still hold owners strictly liable, depending on the circumstances surrounding the attack.
How Do I Prove That the Dog Owner Was Negligent if They Claim Their Dog Has Never Been Aggressive Before?
You may not need to prove negligence at all. Massachusetts law often holds dog owners and keepers responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, even if the animal has never shown signs of aggression before.
What if I Don’t Know Who Owns the Dog That Bit Me?
You should report the incident and provide as much information as possible about the dog and the location of the attack. Animal control, local authorities, and your attorney can often help identify the owner.
Do I Have To Report the Bite to New Bedford Animal Control, or Will the Hospital Do That for Me?
Medical providers frequently report dog bites, but do not assume a report will be made. Contact New Bedford Animal Control or the police yourself to ensure the incident is documented and investigated.
Get Your Free Consultation Now
"*" indicates required fields
Notable Case Results
$130,000
Defendant made a wide turn on Narragansett Parkway in Warwick, turning to wide to avoid hitting the front of our clients vehicle. Client had a stiff neck and back after the accident however the pain continued resulting in months of treatment. The case could not be settled and our litigation team had to tackle the file to get a succesful result.
$125,000
Client was driving on 95 South in Warwick when they were rear ended by a defendant who did not slow down and hit our client going about 55 miles per hour. After months of physical therapy the client had an MRI that revealed small spinal fractures. This file was denied but our litigation team was able to get a settlement for the client.
$24,158
Client was rear ended. Allstate claimed low impact accident and denied any injuries. Our attorney filed suit and liltigated the file, proving injuries even with a low impact, winning the case for our client.
$37,810
Jefferson Blvd in Warwick, our client who was 7 months pregnant was side swipped by a truck. Client was rushed to Woman and Infants Hospital in Providence where client was monitored as she began contractions. She also was treated for body pain. Car was a total loss
$300,000
Client was driving on Route 5 in Warwick near the Lowe’s. Defendant was pulling out of a parking lot and hit our clients motorcycle. Our client was thrown from the bike, slamming his head on the ground. He was rushed to the hospital. Our office settled the claim for policy limit. We recovered $240,000 for the client and an additional $60,000 for a loss of consortium claim for the clients spouse.
$50,000
Client was in Dicks Sporting Goods in Warwick RI. Client was walking in an isle and fell on plastic wire straps that were in the isle. Was taken from the store to Kent Hospital via ambulance. Had to have rotator cuff surgery
$55,000
Client was walking his dog in Warwick. During the walk a pitbull named Xavier started fighting with our clients dog. Our client broke up the fight between the dogs. Rescue came to scene along with police. Client was treated and released. The next day an infection formed causing the client to be hospitalized for 6 days.
$50,881
Client residing in Warwick RI could not work due to Seizure, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorder, Chronic Pain, Boderline Personality Disorder
$52,000
Client living in West Warwick suffering from headaches, PTSD, TBI, IBS and was a sexaul victim during his time of army service in the early 2000s. Our firm won 52,000 in back benefits.
$575,000.00
Client was traveling east on Long Street in Warwick when the defendant, pulling out of a side street, ran a stop sign. The client attempted to stop but was unable to avoid hitting the passenger side of the defendant’s car. Our client was taken from the scene by rescue to Rhode Island Hospital, where he stayed for two days.
Quick Follow-Up and Personalized Case Attention
Easily reached the attorney via phone. I dropped off paperwork and promptly received a call to go over it. The attorney is on the ball and doesn’t need time to look me up when I call to discuss my case, unlike other firms I’ve used.
Leo Z.
Unmatched Attention to Veterans’ Cases
Very great law firm for veterans. The time they take on your case is unbelievable. Please give them your business; you will never regret it.
Leland R.
Efficient Disability Claim Representation
Rob Levine is one of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had. He got my settlement in just nine months for my disability, and it was a great settlement. If you’re looking for a disability lawyer to help you get your settlement quickly, please give them a call.
Yvette R.
Clear Communication and Genuine Client Care
I had an amazing experience with this law firm. From the very beginning, they were professional, supportive, and truly cared about my case. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and made everything feel much less overwhelming.
A special thank you to the paralegal, Candy Rosado. She was absolutely incredible. She was always responsive, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly. Anytime I had questions or concerns, she made sure I felt heard and reassured.
I also want to recognize my attorney, Heather. She has been amazing, very firm, confident, and clearly knows exactly what she’s doing. That gave me so much peace of mind throughout the process.
I’m truly grateful for all the help and dedication they showed while handling my claim. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a team that genuinely cares and goes above and beyond for their clients.
Errolis G.
Thorough and Caring Legal Team for Motorcycle Accidents
Rob Levine Law provides a great experience for my personal motorcycle accident injuries and motorcycle value recovery. Their website portal is easy to use, updating and logging your critical information, personal case references, and timelines. My lawyer, Kevin Marchand, is very proactive, detailed, and reliable! Thankfully, my case manager, Jorge Bedoya, is very caring, precise, and attentive to my needs. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them throughout my case.
Matt S.
Excellent Communication and Fast Case Resolution
My paralegal, Samantha De Souza, and attorney, Kevin Marchand, were both great! They kept me up to date with my case. They were really friendly and helpful with all their information and super patient with all my questions. I loved their online system as well, which kept track of where we were at, and the videos they used to help explain the next steps. They did a great job and closed my case quickly.
Alyssa S.