Providence Dog Bite Lawyers

Why Choose Marasco & Nesselbush Personal Injury Lawyers

When you’re recovering from a dog bite in Rhode Island, you need more than just legal help. You need a team with a strong local presence and a proven record of results. At Marasco & Nesselbush, we’ve earned the trust of injury victims across Providence by combining compassionate service with powerful legal representation.

Here’s why so many dog bite victims turn to us:

• We have a proven history of multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements in personal injury cases.
• Our firm partners with top medical specialists – from emergency care to surgery – to support your injury claims with trusted insight.
• You’ll work with an award-winning legal team backed by decades of combined experience.
• We understand the complexities of Rhode Island dog bite law, from liability to insurance coverage.
• You’ll get personalized attention and open communication.
• And best of all, you won’t pay anything unless we win.

With Marasco & Nesslebush, you have Rhode Island’s trusted injury law firm by your side to help you move forward.

Common Dog Bite Scenarios In Providence

Dog bites can happen suddenly, and in places you least expect. Whether you’re out for a walk, visiting a friend, or simply doing your job, a single bite or attack can lead to serious injuries and emotional trauma. In Providence, we’ve seen many cases where dog owners failed to take proper precautions, resulting in preventable harm.

Some common dog bite scenarios include:

• Unleashed or roaming dogs attacking pedestrians or children in neighborhoods.
• Postal workers, delivery drivers, and first responders bitten while performing their duties.
• Bites at rental properties, Airbnb stays, or friends’ homes, especially when the dog owner fails to warn guests.
• Encounters in public parks or on sidewalks, where dog ownership responsibilities are often ignored.
• Dog-walking or daycare incidents, when caretakers don’t properly control the animals.

Each of these situations may involve different forms of liability, and our team can help determine who is responsible under Rhode Island dog bite law.

Who Can Be Held Liable In A Dog Bite Case

When a dog bite occurs, responsibility doesn’t always fall solely on the dog’s owner. In Rhode Island, liability can extend to others who failed to prevent the bite or attack, especially when they knew – or should have known – about the dog’s behavior.

Those who may be held liable include:

• The dog owner, who is typically strictly liable under Rhode Island law.
• Landlords or property owners who failed to control or remove a dangerous dog.
• Dog walkers or handlers who neglected their duty to manage the dog.
• Host property owners who allowed an aggressive dog on-site without warning guests.

Understanding who is at fault is key to recovering fair compensation.

What Compensation Can You Recover

A dog bite injury can lead to far more than just physical pain. The financial, emotional, and psychological toll can be overwhelming, especially if the bite results in long-term damage or permanent scarring. As a dog bite victim in Rhode Island, you have the right to pursue compensation that reflects the full scope of your losses.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses, including emergency treatment, surgery, medication, and therapy.
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential if your injuries prevent you from working.
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Ongoing care, rehabilitation, and support for scarring or permanent injuries.
• Punitive damages in cases involving reckless behavior or willful neglect by the dog owner.

Every dog bite case is unique. Our attorneys will work closely with you to calculate the true value of your dog bite injury claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Rhode Island Dog Bite Laws You Should Know

Understanding Rhode Island dog bite laws can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights and options. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Modified strict liability applies in Rhode Island. Dog owners are responsible for bites regardless of the dog’s past behavior if the bite occurs outside the owner’s enclosure. However, the “one bite rule” may apply if the bite happens on the owner’s property or inside the dog’s enclosure. In such cases, the victims of dog bites may need to prove the dog had a known history of aggression.
• The statute of limitations gives you three years from the date of the incident to file a claim.
• Depending on the extent of your injuries and damages, your case may be handled in small claims court or full civil court.
• It’s important to report the incident to Providence Animal Control, as public health officials may need to investigate and document the dog bite.

These laws ensure bite victims have a clear path to seek compensation under Rhode Island’s dog bite law.

Don’t Wait – Talk To A Providence Dog Bite Injury Attorney Today

Don’t wait to protect your rights after a dog bite in Rhode Island. The days immediately following a bite are critical for documenting injuries, identifying the dog owner, and preserving key evidence. Speaking with a Providence dog bite injury attorney early can help you understand your legal options and avoid mistakes that could hurt your claim. At Marasco & Nesselbush, we’re here to guide you with compassion and clarity every step of the way.

Our Providence office is ready to help you schedule a free consultation – whether in person, by phone, or virtually. You’ll never pay any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. Call us today at (401) 289-1027 or reach out online to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is my dog bite case worth?

Dog bite settlements often range from $30,000 to over $100,000, depending on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and emotional impact. Cases involving permanent scarring, emotional trauma, or long-term care often result in higher compensation. A dog bite attorney can help evaluate your specific situation and fight for full compensation.

Does the owner’s homeowner’s insurance cover it?

Yes, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover injuries caused by the policyholder’s dog, even off their property. A dog bite lawyer can help you file a claim and deal with the dog owner’s insurance provider.

Can I still sue if I’m bitten by a friend’s dog?

Yes. You can pursue compensation through your friend’s homeowner’s insurance, not their personal assets. It’s possible to recover damages without harming your relationship. An attorney can guide you through this process.

What if the dog had a history of bites?

If the dog has a known history of aggression or prior bites, it can strengthen your case and lead to higher liability for the dog owner. This is especially important under Rhode Island’s modified strict liability and one bite rule principles.

How long before I get paid damages?

Every dog bite case is different, but most are resolved within several months. If litigation is required, it may take longer. A dog bite attorney can help move your case forward efficiently and fight for a timely settlement.