Dog biting a bystanders ankle

A $600,000 settlement was reached by d’Oliveira & Associates Massachusetts dog bite attorney Heather M. Spellman on behalf of a man who suffered serious injuries and permanent scarring after he was attacked by a dog while lawfully on the premises of a business. Our client was at the facility in Rhode Island when a dog that was loose and unrestrained in the waiting area lunged at him and bit his face. He was not provoking the animal and had every right to be there. 

He required complex surgical repair involving multiple lacerations, deep tissue damage, and muscle injury. His medical treatment involved multiple providers and substantial medical bills, in addition to lost wages from the time he was unable to work.

Because the business permitted its employee to bring the dog onto the premises during business hours, it became the dog’s keeper under Rhode Island law. As a result, it was strictly liable for all injuries and damages caused by the animal. We also pursued a claim based on the business’s negligence in failing to implement any reasonable safety policy regarding animals in patient areas. 

d'Oliveira & Associates Dog-Bite Attorney Heather Spellman

Attorney Heather M. Spellman said, “Our client endured a traumatic event that left him with lifelong scarring. While nothing can undo that, the settlement will make a meaningful difference as he moves forward with his life. He was overwhelmed with relief and gratitude, and knowing that he felt fairly compensated for what he went through is what matters most. We are very proud to have helped him achieve this outcome. The result also reflects the protections provided by Rhode Island’s so-called dog bite statute, which holds both owners and keepers of dogs accountable for harm caused by their dogs.” 

Contact a Dog Bite Attorney in Massachusetts Today

2 clients talking to a Massachusetts dog-bite lawyer regarding a case.

Dogs are often considered man’s best friend, but one dog bite can change your life in an instant. If you or a loved one was injured in a dog bite attack, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Our Massachusetts personal injury lawyers handle cases throughout the state and in Rhode Island. Contact d’Oliveira & Associates today by calling toll-free at (800) 992-6878.

Fall River Personal Injury Lawyer | d’Oliveira & Associates

d'Oliveira & Associates Law office located at 408 Bedford St., Fall River, Massachusetts

408 Bedford Street
Fall River, MA. 02720
(508) 677-0500