Maryland Dog Bite Lawyers
Dog bite incidents can lead to severe physical and emotional trauma. In Maryland, specific laws are in place to protect victims and hold dog owners accountable. The Maryland dog bite lawyers at Maryland Injury Lawyers understand how these laws apply to your situation and how the injury has affected your life. We’ll work to achieve the compensation you need and the justice you deserve after suffering a vicious attack.
Maryland’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Maryland operates under a strict liability framework concerning dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of the animal’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any vicious tendencies. Specifically, if a dog is running at large—meaning it is not under the control of a responsible person—and causes injury, the owner is automatically held responsible for damages.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. An owner may not be held liable if the injured person was:
- Trespassing or attempting to trespass on the owner’s property.
- Committing or attempting to commit a criminal offense against any person or property.
- Teasing, tormenting, abusing, or provoking the dog.
In such scenarios, the victim’s actions can serve as a defense for the dog owner against liability claims. In addition, Maryland adheres to the doctrine of contributory negligence, which can significantly impact a dog bite claim. Under this rule, if a victim is found to have contributed in any way to their injury—such as by provoking the dog or trespassing—they may be barred from recovering any compensation. This strict standard underscores the importance of demonstrating that the victim had no role in causing the incident.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Maryland
Victims of dog bites in Maryland have a limited window to file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for such cases is three years from the date of the incident. Failing to file within this period can result in the loss of the right to seek compensation. It’s crucial to act swiftly after a dog bite to safeguard your rights, preserve evidence, and protect your health and personal injury claim.
Potential Compensation for Maryland Dog Bite Victims
If you’ve been injured by a dog bite, Maryland law allows you to seek compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs incurred for emergency treatment, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the incident.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses related to physical therapy or counseling services.
It’s crucial to document all related expenses and impacts on your life to support your claim effectively.
Steps to Take Following a Dog Bite
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, consider the following actions:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting prompt medical care, even if injuries appear minor. Infections and other serious complications could arise if treatment is not sought in a timely manner.
- Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or law enforcement to document the event officially.
- Gather Information: Collect the dog owner’s contact details, vaccination records, and any witness statements.
- Document Your Injuries: Take photographs of your injuries and maintain records of all medical treatments.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you pursue appropriate compensation.
Understanding Maryland’s dog bite laws is essential for victims seeking justice and compensation. By taking the appropriate steps and being aware of your rights, you can navigate the aftermath of a dog bite incident more effectively.
Contact Maryland Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite or animal attack in Maryland, contact Maryland Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. Our lawyers are tireless champions for justice and compensation on behalf of injury victims. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.