Dog Bites in Maryland

Dog bites can result in serious injuries, leading to physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Maryland, it’s important to understand your rights and the process of pursuing a dog bite claim. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable information about dog bite personal injury cases in Maryland. From the legal implications to the steps involved in seeking compensation, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Introduction to Dog Bite Personal Injury Cases

Dog bites can cause severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and even long-term scarring. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States. In Maryland alone, dog bite incidents are not uncommon. When someone is bitten by a dog, they may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

Maryland Dog Bite Laws

Maryland has specific laws in place regarding dog bites and the liability of dog owners. Under Maryland law, dog owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, even if the dog has no prior history of aggression. The state follows a strict liability standard, meaning that the owner is liable for any damages caused by their dog, regardless of whether they were aware of the dog’s dangerous propensities.

Proving Liability in a Dog Bite Case

In a dog bite case, it is essential to establish liability in order to seek compensation for your injuries. There are two primary legal theories that can be used to prove liability in Maryland dog bite cases: strict liability and negligence.

Strict liability holds dog owners responsible for any injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they knew or should have known about the dog’s aggressive tendencies. This means that if you were bitten by a dog in Maryland, you can pursue a claim against the owner without having to prove that the owner was negligent. That usually applies in situations where the dogs are unrestrained or deemed to be an “animal at large.”

Negligence, on the other hand, requires showing that the dog owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling their dog, leading to the injury. This may involve demonstrating that the owner knew or should have known that their dog had a propensity for aggression and failed to take appropriate precautions.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident

If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in Maryland, it is crucial to take certain steps immediately following the incident. These steps will help ensure your safety, preserve evidence, and strengthen your potential dog bite claim:

Seek Medical Attention:

After a dog bite, your health and well-being should be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention, even if the bite seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, and other complications. A medical professional will assess your injuries, provide necessary treatment, and document your medical records, which will serve as crucial evidence for your claim.

Report the Incident:

Contact local authorities, such as animal control or the police, to report the dog bite incident. They can investigate the situation, identify the dog and its owner, and create an official record of the incident. This documentation will be useful when filing a dog bite claim.

Gather Evidence:

Collect as much evidence as possible to support your dog bite claim. Take photographs of your injuries, the location of the incident, and any visible signs of negligence, such as an unrestrained dog or inadequate fencing. Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident occur.

Document Expenses:

Keep detailed records of all expenses related to the dog bite, including medical bills, medication costs, therapy expenses, and any other out-of-pocket costs. These records will help determine the value of your claim and ensure you are fully compensated for your losses.

Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer:

Contact an experienced dog bite lawyer in Maryland as soon as possible. They will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you build a strong case. A knowledgeable lawyer will understand the complex laws surrounding dog bite cases and will work to maximize your compensation.

Seeking Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Maryland, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related damages. The types of compensation you may be eligible to receive include:

Medical Expenses:

You can seek compensation for all medical expenses related to your dog bite injuries, including emergency room visits, doctor’s appointments, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.

Pain and Suffering:

Dog bite injuries can have lasting physical and emotional effects. Compensation may be awarded for the physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, and trauma you have experienced as a result of the dog bite.

Lost Wages:

If your injuries have caused you to miss work or have resulted in a loss of earning capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, both past and future.

Scarring and Disfigurement:

Dog bites can leave permanent scars and disfigurement. You may be eligible for compensation for the physical and emotional impact of these visible injuries.

Property Damage:

If your personal property, such as clothing or personal belongings, was damaged during the dog bite incident, you may be able to recover compensation to repair or replace these items.

It’s important to consult with a dog bite lawyer who can assess the specific details of your case and determine the appropriate amount of compensation to pursue.

Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer in Maryland

When pursuing a dog bite claim in Maryland, it is highly recommended to hire an experienced dog bite lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases. A skilled lawyer will have in-depth knowledge of Maryland’s dog bite laws, understand the legal complexities involved, and be equipped to handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, represent you in court.

Common Defenses in Dog Bite Cases

In dog bite cases, defendants and their insurance companies often employ various defenses to minimize their liability. Some common defenses include:

Provocation:

The defendant may argue that the victim provoked the dog, leading to the attack. However, this defense requires substantial evidence to prove that the victim’s actions directly caused the dog’s aggressive behavior.

Trespassing or Criminal Activity:

If the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property or engaging in criminal activity at the time of the dog bite incident, the defendant may argue that they are not liable for the injuries.

Contributory Negligence:

Maryland follows the doctrine of contributory negligence, which means that if the victim is found to have contributed in any way to the dog bite incident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation. It is crucial to work with a skilled accident lawyer who can effectively counter these defenses and protect your rights.

Dog Bite Settlements and Verdicts in Maryland

Dog bite cases in Maryland can result in both settlements and verdicts, depending on the specific circumstances of each case. While settlements are the most common outcome, negotiated between the victim and the defendant’s insurance company, some cases may proceed to trial.

The amount of compensation awarded in dog bite cases varies widely and is influenced by factors such as the severity of the injuries, the impact on the victim’s life, and the defendant’s level of liability. Examples of dog bite settlements and verdicts in Maryland include:

• In 2019, a nursing home owner’s pit bull bit a resident and employee, resulting in facial lacerations and other injuries. The resident received $717,851, while the employee received $41,709 in a bench trial.
• In 2019, a woman was bitten by a Rottweiler, leading to injuries on her thigh and lower leg. The jury awarded $45,000 in damages.
• In 2017, a 7-year-old girl was bitten by a pit bull owned by her parent’s landlord, resulting in permanent scars and post-traumatic stress. She was awarded $545,000 for her pain and suffering and medical expenses.

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Maryland

In Maryland, there is a statute of limitations that sets a time limit for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bite claims. The statute of limitations for dog bite claims in Maryland is generally three years from the date of the incident. However, it is crucial to consult with a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible to ensure compliance with all applicable deadlines.

Conclusion

Dog bites can be physically and emotionally devastating, often resulting in significant injuries and financial hardships. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Maryland, it is essential to understand your rights and the legal process involved in seeking compensation for your injuries.

By familiarizing yourself with Maryland’s dog bite laws, proving liability, and taking appropriate steps after a dog bite incident, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation. Hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer will provide you with the guidance, support, and advocacy needed to navigate the legal complexities of your case.

Remember, dog bite cases are time-sensitive, so it is crucial to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations. With the right legal representation, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer works diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.