Dog’s are often referred to as “man’s best friend.” In fact, many people treat their dogs as a part of their family. Unfortunately, some people fail to adequately train their dogs. When this happens, dogs can become aggressive or territorial, and serious accidents can occur. Read on to learn more about what to do if you are injured by a dog in Maryland.
What are Maryland’s Dog Bite Laws?
In Maryland, the fault for a dog bite generally lies with the dog owner. If the dog was not on a leash or it was off of its property, you do not need to prove the dog’s history of violence. That being said, if the injury occurred while the dog was on a leash, or on its property, you will have to prove that the accident occurred as a result of negligence. There are certain cases in which the owner will not be held responsible and the victim will not be eligible to recover compensation. For example, if you were trespassing or attempting to commit a crime on the owner’s property, and you are injured by the owner’s dog in the process, you will not be entitled to compensation. In addition, if the owner can prove that you were provoking the dog or ignoring warnings to stay away from the dog, the owner will likely not be held responsible.
What do I do if I am Injured by a dog?
If you are injured by a dog bite in Maryland, you may be entitled to recover compensation. In order to recover the compensation you deserve, you will have to fulfill the burden of proof. To do this, be sure to:
- Seek medical attention: If you are injured by a dog, it is important to seek medical attention right away. You should go to the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility, even if you do not believe you have been seriously injured. This is because it is possible to sustain a serious injury without realizing it. Additionally, when it comes to animal bites, it is important to check for rabies and other diseases. Before leaving, ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents, as this may play a major role in your case.
- Document the scene: Be sure to take pictures and videos of your injuries. Additionally, document the scene. For example, if the dog is not on a leash, it is important to provide evidence of this.
If you have been injured by a dog bite in Maryland, our firm is here to help. Reach out today to discuss your case with an experienced and dedicated attorney.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED MARYLAND FIRM
The legal team at Markey & Orsi has proudly represented injured clients throughout the state of Maryland for almost 30 years. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence and require strong legal representation, contact Markey & Orsi today to schedule a consultation.
