Dogs are known as human’s best friends, but the risk of being bitten still exists. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites cases occur in the United States, and about 20% of those cases require medical attention. If you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog in Maryland, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Here is everything you need to know about filing a personal injury claim for a dog bite in Maryland.
Table of Contents
Dog Owner Liability in Maryland
Maryland follows the "one-bite" rule, meaning that in order to hold the owner of the dog responsible, it must be shown that the owner knew or should have known that the dog had a propensity to bite or attack. This means that if a dog bites someone for the first time, the owner may not be held liable for the victim’s injuries.
However, if the owner had previous knowledge of the dog’s aggressive behavior, and failed to take proper precautions such as keeping the dog leashed, the owner can be held liable for any subsequent bites or attacks.
Strict Liability
Maryland also has a strict liability statute for dog bites. Under this law, if the victim can prove that they were bitten by the dog and that they were lawfully present in the location where the bite occurred, the owner of the dog is automatically liable for the injuries caused by the dog, regardless of whether or not the dog had a history of aggression.
However, this strict liability statute does not apply if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing on the owner’s property at the time of the bite.
Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
If you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog in Maryland, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This can include:
- Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and medication
- Lost wages due to time missed from work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Permanent disability
Filing a Personal Injury Claim for a Dog Bite in Maryland
If you have been bitten by a dog in Maryland, the first step is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite seems minor, it is important to have it evaluated by a medical professional to make sure that it is properly cleaned and treated to prevent infection.
After you have received medical treatment, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you file a claim for compensation. Your attorney will gather evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, to support your claim and negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company on your behalf.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend taking your case to court to seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog in Maryland, it is important to know your rights and seek compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages. Remember to seek medical attention immediately after a dog bite and avoid provoking dogs or trespassing on private property to minimize the risk of being bitten.